The University of South Dakota (USD) bestowed its prestigious Graduate Excellence in Teaching Award upon two exemplary graduate students, celebrating the importance of teaching in higher education and highlighting the unique connections to South Dakota’s academic landscape. This year, the top honors were awarded to Bethany Larson and Mariana Astete, both of whom have passionately contributed to the academic community at USD.
University of South Dakota
South Dakota’s Own: Bethany Larson
Bethany Larson, originally from the vibrant town of Huron, South Dakota, embodies the spirit of dedication and passion. Her journey began at Black Hills State University, where she completed her Bachelor of Education in English education in 2024. Today, she is charting her path through a master’s in English, literary studies, with an emphasis on creative writing at USD. Larson’s academic pursuits intertwine seamlessly with her role as a graduate teaching assistant in the Department of English, where she has taught Composition I and is currently enlightening students in Introduction to Literature.
Upon receiving the first-place award, accompanied by a $600 honorarium, Larson expressed her gratitude, stating, “Teaching at any level provides the community with necessary growth and citizenship. I am incredibly grateful to be a member of this community with USD and am especially thankful to be awarded in my practice here.” Her words echo a commitment to not only furthering academic excellence but also to fostering community growth through education. Larson’s accolades continue as she is nominated for the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award.
International Flair: Mariana Astete
Hailing from Santiago, Chile, Mariana Astete has invigorated USD’s Department of Art with her unique perspective and profound dedication. Astete, a Master of Fine Arts candidate, focuses her artistic talents on printmaking. Her journey into the art world was enriched by her Bachelor of Fine Arts degree from the University of Texas Permian Basin. At USD, she has not only contributed as an instructor of record but has also inspired students in courses like Printmaking I and Drawing I.
Astete, the recipient of the second-place award which includes a $400 honorarium, shared, “Receiving this teaching award is deeply meaningful to me, as it provides the opportunity to further support my own research and thesis development. It allows me to continue building my knowledge in printmaking while seeking environments that encourage learning, teaching, and instruction.” Her nomination for the Midwestern Association of Graduate Schools 2026 Excellence in Teaching Award further solidifies her outstanding contributions to both the academic and artistic communities.
Enriching the Academic Community at USD
The Graduate School at USD administers these awards, aimed at recognizing the valuable contributions teaching assistants make to the University’s mission. These awards are a testament to the high-quality education and dedication USD promotes among its students and faculty.
Graduate students like Larson and Astete exemplify the spirit of South Dakota, weaving their personal and professional narratives into the rich tapestry of its academic community. Their achievements emphasize the importance of education as a cornerstone for societal growth and the continuous enrichment of cultural and intellectual landscapes. With both recipients nominated for regional accolades, their impact is set to extend beyond the borders of South Dakota, reflecting the state’s commitment to excellence in education.
This recognition not only honors their dedication but also enhances the reputation of USD as a fertile ground for educational innovation and excellence. The state of South Dakota can take pride in fostering such talented individuals, whose aspirations and accomplishments inspire both locally and beyond.