University News


BHSU in the news B


lack Hills State University’s proximity to the Sanford Laboratory at Homestake, combined with a high


level of interest among faculty and staff, has created numerous collaborative projects not only in science but also across the disciplines.


BHSU is mining for knowledge at the Sanford Underground Lab


Students at BHSU have already had the opportunity to participate in ground- breaking research and will be ready to take part in other activities as the lab develops. “BHSU is known for transforming


the lives of students. The laboratory has the potential to transform not only BHSU, but also the Black Hills region and the entire state,” President Kay Schallenkamp said. “What was once a gold mine is now a mine for knowledge with implications that will reach around the world."


BHSU students and faculty recognize the importance of the lab as a research


Dr. Kara Keeter and Kristal Running Wolf are among several BHSU faculty and students who are actively involved in research at Sanford Lab at Homestake. BHSU’s proximity to the Lab combined with a high level of interest among faculty and staff has created numerous projects not only in science but also in science education and across the disciplines.


facility and also as an impetus for teaching others about science. Science students have the unique opportunity to participate in research involving physics, biology, and other fields. Microbial research is being performed on water as it is being pumped out of the mine. This research has implication for bio-fuel options and medical considerations including screenings against antibiotics, anti-tumor, and environmental concerns.


BHSU is establishing a nuclear and particle astrophysics program that studies the very smallest


Faculty in the news


Dr. Cheryl Anagnopoulos, professor of psychology, was selected to receive the 2009 Distinguished Faculty Award because she epitomizes what it means to be a professor as evidenced by her commitment to students, her ongoing research, and her innovative teaching


methods. Since joining the BHSU faculty in 1993, Anagnopoulos has taught nearly all of the psychology courses offered at the University and is known for her commitment to learning and using technology to enhance these courses.


Dr. Holly Downing, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences, has been selected to be a member for the Council of Colleges of Arts and Sciences standing committee for comprehensive institutions.


Downing will also serve on the Case Study ad hoc committee, which selects case studies for discussion at the annual meeting.


Dr. Len Austin, associate professor of education; and Dr. John Alsup, professor of education, presented at the World Civic Forum at the United Nations Conference in Seoul, Korea. Austin presented “Teaching People Not Content: Using Higher Education to Develop Humanitarian Skills,” and Alsup presented “Teaching Mathematics in Rural Tanzania.”


Dr. Priscilla Romkema, dean of the College of Business and Technology, ran in the 113th Boston Marathon. Romkema qualified for the Boston Marathon during the Leading Ladies’ Marathon and was one of 22 South Dakota residents who participated.


Daluss Siewert, associate professor of mathematics, was recently elected


Black Hills State University Alumni Magazine Page 19


Chairperson of the Rocky Mountain Section of the Mathematical Association of America (MAA) at the section’s annual meeting in Golden, Colo.


Dr. James Hesson, professor of exercise science, is certified in two NSCA specializations, Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) and Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) through the year 2011. Currently Hesson is the only individual in the state of South Dakota that is dual certified with dual distinction.


Kent Meyers, associate professor of English, presented at three different writing classes at Loyola College in Baltimore, Md. He discussed fiction and non-fiction writing, and contemporary literature. He has also been invited to write the introductory essay for The Best of the West: Anthology of Classic Writing from the American West.


particles in the universe in order to understand stars, supernovae, and even galaxies.


2010 Research Center (CUBED) has been established at Sanford Lab by the state of South Dakota and provides research opportunities in physical science. Science Education: BHSU, which is already recognized as a leader in science and math education, will use this unique opportunity to combine its premier teacher preparation program with cutting-edge research to identify and refine new ways to teach math and science. In addition, the University is taking the lead in the development of the Sanford Center for Science Education. Other Initiatives: History faculty


members are working with the Homestake Adams Research and Cultural Center to maintain and enhance historic records. Students in the mass communication program are pursuing options for internships at the lab and creating science photography exhibits. The College of Business and Technology is collaborating on tourism and business plan components. Students will also be assisting in maintaining the information and technology infrastructure at Sanford Lab.


This is just the beginning. Many more opportunities will emerge as the lab is developed, and the BHSU students and faculty will be ready to maximize the opportunities that lie ahead.


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