MEMBERS

Committees

The following committees are created by and report to the Faculty Senate:

Academic Technology Committee (Vice President of Finance and Administration)

Mission: Continually assess the quality of campus technology with an emphasis on academic computing. Make recommendations to the Vice President of Finance & Administration regarding new technologies and ways to improve existing campus technology. Review proposed campus programs or changes to existing campus programs that affect academic technology. Address issues brought to the committee by students, staff, or faculty regarding ways to improve academic technology.

Appointments Committee (Faculty Senate)

Mission: Supervise the filling of vacancies and the election of all Senate Committees. Keep appropriate records of the terms of office and maintain a file of the official records of all committee minutes. File a copy of all official records with the BHSU Library Archives at the end of every year. One faculty member will be appointed from each college. All terms will be for one year.

Assessment Committee-University (Provost)

Mission: Encourage, promote, and support the assessment of student learning across the institution.

Campus Safety & Emergency Planning Committee (Vice President of Finance and Administration)

Mission: Discuss current conditions of and proposed changes to campus building and grounds, safety and accessibility, and campus design and appearance. Educate students, faculty, and staff about emergency policies and procedures and update resources to support emergency response.

Case Library Committee (Provost)

Mission: Advise the Case Library’s staff on collection acquisition, management, and library policies.
Promote the library’s holdings and activities by sponsoring special programs, participating in history
conferences and by working with the support group, Friends of Leland Case Library.

Chiesman Committee (Provost)

Mission: Promote civic education for BHSU students with special emphasis and attention to broadening awareness of democratic ideals and the significance of citizenship.

Curriculum Committee (Faculty Senate)

Mission: Study, approve, and make recommendations to the Faculty Senate concerning any changes made in the curriculum in any area of the University, including course and program request changes.

*Terms are three years with three members (one from each college) appointed each year.

Distinguished Faculty Award Committee (Faculty Senate)

Mission: Recommend a recipient of the Black Hills State University Distinguished Faculty Award to the Faculty Senate and the President.

*All those who previously received this award will serve until they retire or leave BHSU, coordinated by the Vice President of Faculty Senate (Chair, nonvoting)

Opportunity Center Steering Committee (Provost)

Mission: The Opportunity Center Steering Committee coordinates the campus services and activities that work to support opportunities for all students to benefit from education and to prepare to live and work in South Dakota or anywhere in the world.

Employee Recognition Committee (Vice President of Finance and Administration)

Mission: Recommend to the President, names of employees or university areas for recognition by
Black Hills State University, Black Hills Foundation and the President in the areas of:
1. Presidential Rising Star Faculty
2. Presidential Rising Star Non-Faculty
3. Presidential Outstanding Employee
4. Presidential Team Excellence
5. Presidential Student Employee

Financial Aid Appeals Committee (Vice President of Enrollment Management)

Mission: Assist in reviews of students who have been financially suspended because they have not met the requirements set for the University’s Financial Aid Satisfactory Progress Policy. Review and allow those students back on financial aid who appear to be able to successfully complete their degree in a timely manner.

General Education Requirements Committee (Faculty Senate)

Mission: Responsible for studying, approving, and making recommendations to the Faculty Senate
concerning the general education requirements for BHSU students. Terms are for three years.

Graduate Council (Provost)

Mission: Advise the Provost on matters related to graduate program requirements and procedures.

Honorary Doctorate Committee (President)

Mission: Solicit nominations and make selections for honorary degree recipients.

Honors Advisory Committee (Provost)

Mission: Advise the Honors Director and the Provost on matters related to the Honors Program.

Institutional Research Board (Animal Care and Human Subjects Committee) (Provost)

Mission: Ensure the appropriate treatment of animal specimens and human subjects involved in research projects.

Madeline Young Speaker Series Committee (Vice President for University Advancement)

Mission: Bring prominent speakers to campus to benefit students, faculty and citizens of the Black Hills area. The nature of selected speakers and topics are selected to enhance and challenge the artistic, cultural, civic, educational, or intellectual interests of the community.

Naming Advisory Committee (President)

Mission: To accept nominations for naming of buildings, field/courts, conference rooms, centers or other academic programs, as well as positions such as endowed faculty chair, Dean, Department Chair or the like. This includes naming after an individual, family, company or corporation.

NCAA Athletic Compliance Committee (Director of Athletics)

Mission: Oversee the rules, best practices, compliance policies and procedures for the institution as it relates to NCAA DII Athletics. The committee is comprised of individuals from the following departments: Athletic Department, Admissions, Professional Advisors, Student Support Services, Facility Athletic Representative, Registrar, Financial Aid, and meets quarterly to review, update, and implement compliance procedures.

*The goal of the Athletic Compliance Committee is to provide transparency and institutional control in accordance with NCAA DII and RMAC requirements.

Promotion & Tenure Committee – University (President)

Mission: Consider eligible faculty for tenure and promotion and make recommendations to the president. 50% Administration--50% Faculty.

Research Council (Provost)

Mission: Develop and implement a strategic plan to strengthen research at BHSU and identify key areas that will shape the research identity.

Research Symposium Committee (Provost)

Mission: Help promote undergraduate research on the Black Hills State University campus through organizing and overseeing an annual Black Hills Research Symposium.

Scholarship Committee (Vice President for University Advancement)

Mission: Oversee the development, management, and maintenance of scholarship policies, procedures and operations.

Staff Senate

Mission: An organization of staff at Black Hills State University (BHSU) who have been elected to represent their peers on the BHSU campuses.

Sustainability & Biodiversity Committee (Vice President of Finance & Administration)

Mission: Recommend strategies to advance BHSU’s commitment to sustainability, promote sustainability efforts on campus, and educate the campus community on sustainability issues. The Biodiversity Subcommittee will coordinate with Facilities Services to help maintain the beauty of the campus landscape, while protecting the environment and fostering conservation efforts within the community, as well as lead the University’s application for Tree Campus USA certification through Arbor Day Foundation.

Strategic Enrollment Management Governance Committee (VP for Enrollment Management)

Mission: The committee will implement strategic goals, enable plan implementation, evaluate budget initiatives, monitor goal progress through a KPI report card, and make recommendations to the President and Senior Leadership Team. The group will also be responsible to develop and monitor the enrollment and retention dashboards and take appropriate action to ensure BHSU is on track to reach our enrollment and retention goals.

CONSTITUTION

ARTICLE I - PREAMBLE AND PURPOSE

The Faculty Senate of Black Hills State University is an elected body that expresses the
faculty’s concerns for the welfare and improvement of the University through stimulating
communications, formulating general university policy, and performing those duties and
functions especially allocated to or assumed by the faculty.

Black Hills State University, under the jurisdiction of the Board of Regents of the State of South
Dakota, is a self-governing community of scholars in which faculty, staff, administration, and
students all have legitimate and meaningful roles to play in the achievement of their common
goals.

The Faculty Senate constitutes the proper forum for faculty participation in policy and procedural
determination with regard to those academic matters in which the faculty have expertise and
responsibility and in all other areas that affect the faculty.

The actions taken by the Faculty Senate are subject to the limitations imposed by the laws of
the State of South Dakota, the President of the University, and the Board of Regents’ (BOR)
contract.

The Faculty Senate subscribes to and promotes the American Association of University
Professors’ Statement of Principles on Academic Freedom.

ARTICLE II - NATURE, AUTHORITY, RESPONSIBILITY, AND DUTIES

Section 1

The Faculty Senate shall be the delegate assembly of the faculty through which the faculty
members shall normally exercise their powers. “Faculty member” is defined as a full-time,
tenure-track faculty member. Adjunct and Instructor positions are not eligible to serve.

Section 2

The Faculty Senate shall work toward the orderly development of the educational programs and
policies of the university; facilitate communication and cooperation among officers of the
administration and the university faculty; promote the continued improvement of higher
education in the state of South Dakota, and strive to procure the best conditions possible for
faculty instruction, research, and service.

Section 3

The Faculty Senate shall have the power to review, consider, recommend, and in some cases
determine policies pertaining to the general welfare of the university, the faculty, and the
students. The Faculty Senate will present faculty positions on academic and other issues of
university concern and examine and recommend to the President and/or the Board of Regents
any action taken by a committee, council, college, school, department, or other administrative
offices of the university.

The Faculty Senate’s responsibilities will include but are not limited to making
recommendations:
a. for entrance requirements for students;
b. for the general education requirements for the university;
c. for the registration procedure;
d. for the academic catalog contents;
e. on requested courses and curriculum changes;
f. for graduation requirements;
g. for rules and regulations for the granting of honorary degrees by the institution;
h. for rules and regulations for the government and discipline of the students;
i. for rules and regulations for the organization, operation, and control of student organizations
and group activities;
j. for rules and regulations to govern the conduct of all intercollegiate activities, including
athletics;
k. for approval of degree, diploma, and certificate candidates;
l. for committees and committee members to function on behalf of the faculty.

Section 4

The Faculty Senate shall have the power to advise the University President on general
budgetary policy and financial problems directly affecting the university.

Section 5

The Faculty Senate shall foster open and free communication between faculty and the
administration. Any member of the faculty may request the Senate to consider, for discussion
and possible action, topics of concern for the welfare and improvement of the university and
higher education in South Dakota under the jurisdiction of the Senate.

Section 6

The Faculty Senate shall consider questions referred to it by the University President, the
Provost, and/or the President of the Faculty Senate.

Section 7

The Faculty Senate shall have the power to establish ad hoc and standing committees;
establish rules, memberships, and procedures for its committees; and review, approve, or veto
the actions of the committees under its jurisdiction.

Section 8

Nothing in this article shall be construed as prohibiting consultation at all levels of the student,
faculty, or administrative organization.

Section 9

Upon a written request, signed by twenty-five percent (25%) of the faculty, any action of the
Faculty Senate may be reviewed at a general faculty meeting called within two weeks of the
receipt of the request.

ARTICLE III - MEMBERSHIP AND ELECTIONS

Section 1

Members of the Senate will be elected from their respective academic units. The length of a
senator’s term shall be three (3) years. Terms will be staggered. Faculty will elect members as
follows:
a. College of Liberal Arts (Schools of Arts, Humanities, Mathematics & Social Sciences): Three
(3) members: one (1) from each school.
b. College of Behavioral & Natural Sciences (Schools of Natural Sciences, Behavioral
Sciences): Two (2) members: one (1) from each school.
c. College of Business: One (1) member
d. College of Education: One (1) member
e. One (1) at large from College of Liberal Arts
f. One (1) at large from College of Natural and Behavioral Sciences
g. One (1) at large from College of Education/College of Business
In the event a seat listed in e.-g. cannot be filled, the seat becomes a university at-large seat for
the duration of the term. Once the term ends, the seat returns to its original unit.

Section 2

In the event a member is unable to assume or complete their term, a special election shall be
held within the unit (School or College) from which the member was elected and the elected
individual will complete the unexpired term.

Section 3

Election of members shall be held each year no earlier than April 1 nor later than April 30.
Members elected in April will be seated at the first meeting held after April 30. In April, the
President shall solicit nominations for vacancies on the Senate caused by the expiration of
terms or unexpected vacancies and oversee the election of the new members.

Section 4

The Vice-president of the Faculty Senate shall act as chair of the Election Committee. The
President of the Faculty Senate shall appoint by March 1 two Senate members to serve on the
election committee.

ARTICLE IV – OFFICERS

Section 1

The officers of the Faculty Senate shall consist of a president, vice-president, and secretary.
These officers shall constitute the executive committee of the Senate. The executive committee
will coordinate and monitor the activities and actions of the Senate.

Section 2

The President, Vice-president, and Secretary of the Senate shall be elected from the voting
members of the Senate at the first meeting in May. The persons elected will assume office on
August 1.

ARTICLE V - MEETINGS AND PROCEDURES

Section 1

The Faculty Senate shall meet a minimum of once a month at the time and place determined by
the Senate. The Bylaws may provide for meetings more than once a month. (Bylaws, Article III,
Section 1)

Section 2

Special meetings of the Senate shall be called by the President of the Faculty Senate or upon
written request to the President of the Senate by one-half of the voting membership of the
Senate.

Section 3

Senate meetings are open to all members of the faculty. Other university personnel besides the
Senate may participate in Senate discussions upon recognition by and notification to the
President of their intent. Other non-university persons may address the Senate if a quorum of
the senators vote to allow them to speak.

Section 4

A majority of the members of the Faculty Senate shall constitute a quorum.

Section 5

Two-thirds (2/3) of votes cast, provided a quorum is present, shall be required in the Faculty
Senate to determine an issue or an election.

Section 6

A proxy shall be recognized only if a senator notifies a Faculty Senate officer of the name of the
proxy holder before the scheduled meeting of the Senate. A proxy holder must be a member of
the same college as the absent senator. (See Bylaws, Article V, Section 1)

Section 7

The definitive authority governing the Faculty Senate shall be Robert’s Rules of Order, Revised.

Section 8

Within ten (10) days of approval of the minutes, the Faculty Senate shall distribute its minutes to
the members of the faculty. The secretary shall record and report in the minutes the results of all
votes.

ARTICLE VI - SCHEDULE, AMENDMENTS, AND BYLAWS

Section 1

This constitution shall go into effect immediately upon the affirmative vote of the two-thirds of
the voting membership of the Faculty Senate and the affirmative vote of two-thirds of the faculty
voting on the issue by written ballot.

Section 2

Amendments to this constitution shall be proposed by a two-thirds vote of the voting
membership of the Faculty Senate and ratified by a two-thirds vote of the faculty voting on the
issue.

Section 3

The Faculty Senate may establish the initial bylaws by a vote of two-thirds of the faculty
members voting on the issue.

Adopted by the faculty on December 10, 1970
(Amended February 8, 1973)
(Amended November 1, 1989)
(Amended ________________, 1995)
(Amended September 10, 1998)
(Amended April 5, 2006)
IMPLEMENTATION CLAUSE: this Constitution and Bylaws will go into effect immediately after
ratification by two-thirds (2/3) of the voting faculty in April 2008. (Amended April 16, 2008)
Amended in November 2011 unanimously by the voting faculty.
(Amended April 17, 2024)

BYLAWS 

ARTICLE I – BYLAWS 

Section 1 

Bylaws may be adopted, repealed, or amended by a vote of two-thirds of the members of the Senate. Proposed changes or additions must be submitted to the Senate President for distribution to Senate members one meeting prior to the meeting during which the vote is taken and must be placed on the printed agenda for the meeting. 

ARTICLE II -- Officers and Duties 

Section 1 - Office of President 

A. The term of office of the Faculty Senate President shall be one year. 

B. The Faculty Senate President will be elected from the body of the Faculty Senate. 

C. The Faculty Senate President shall not serve more than two consecutive terms. 

D. The Faculty Senate President will vote only when his or her vote will change the results of the vote. 

Section 2 - Duties of the President 

A. The President shall preside at the Faculty Senate meetings. 

B. The President shall serve as a liaison between the faculty and the administration with the responsibility of presenting the faculty’s “point of view” on those issues considered by the administration that are of direct concern to the faculty of 

Black Hills State University. 

C. The Senate President shall transmit to the President of the University reports of the Secretary of the Senate concerning all recommendations approved (arrived at) by the Faculty Senate. The President of the University shall have thirty days after the receipt of such reports to exercise the privilege to veto. The Faculty Senate by a two-thirds vote may then return the issue to the President of the University for reconsideration. 

D. The President and/or the Vice President shall ensure that Senate committees are meeting, chairs, and other officers have been elected, minutes are kept, and annual reports to the Senate are filed yearly in April. Annual reports will be kept by the University Archives. 

Section 3 – Office and Duties of the Vice-President of the Faculty Senate 

A. The term of office of the Vice-President shall be one year with no term limit. 

B. The Vice-President will be elected from the body of the Faculty Senate. C. The Vice-President shall be a voting member of the Faculty Senate. 

D. The Vice-President shall assume the office of the President of the Faculty Senate in the absence of the President. 

E. The Vice-President will complete the term of the President when the President is unable to do so. 

F. The Vice-President will be the Chair of the Distinguished Faculty Awards Committee and the Appointments Committee. 

G. Upon leaving office, the (now former) Vice-President will become a one-year additional member on the Appointments Committee. Faculty Senate Bylaws April 2012—Page 2 of 4 

Section 4 – Office and Duties of the Secretary of the Faculty Senate 

A. The term of office of the Secretary will be one year, with no term limit. 

B. The Secretary will be elected from the body of the Faculty Senate. 

C. The Secretary of the Faculty Senate shall be a voting member. 

D. The Secretary of the Faculty Senate will record all deliberations and actions of the Faculty Senate. 

E. The Secretary will distribute the record of the proceedings to the Senate for approval by its next meeting. 

F. The Secretary will distribute the record of the proceedings to the general faculty and administration. 

ARTICLE III -- Schedule of Senate Meetings 

Section 1 

The Faculty Senate shall schedule meetings for the afternoon of the first and third Wednesdays of each month from September to May, with the exception that there will be only one meeting scheduled in May. 

Section 2 

The second meeting of the month will be held if there are any agenda items. 

Section 3 

The Senate President, University Provost, and/or University President may call special meetings for specific and clearly stated purposes. 

ARTICLE IV -- Agenda Items 

Section 1 

Agenda items will be printed and submitted to the Senate members at least one day before the Senate meetings. 

Section 2 

Any faculty member may request in writing an item to be added to the official agenda of the 

Faculty Senate by submitting the item to a Senate representative before a scheduled meeting 

ARTICLE V -- Proxies 

Section 1 

In the event a Senate member is unable to attend any regular or special meeting, the Senate member may: 

A. Designate another faculty member from the member’s elective unit (school or college) to attend in their place by notifying a Faculty Senate officer. 

B. The proxy shall have the same right and privileges as the regular member, with the exception that the regular member shall have the right to instruct the proxy on their voting preference on any specific issue on the Senate agenda and the proxy must honor the preference. Faculty Senate Bylaws April 2012—Page 3 of 4 

ARTICLE VI – Committees 

Section 1 

The Faculty Senate will establish the following committees if they are not already in existence. 

Standing Committees 

a. Appointments Committee (AC) 

b. University Curriculum Committee (UCC) 

c. Distinguished Faculty Awards Committee (DFAC) 

d. General Education Committee (GEC) 

e. Library/Education Media Committee (LEMC) 

f. Ad hoc Committees and Sub-committees as Needed 

The Faculty Senate will coordinate committee activities and assignments with COHE and the administration. 

Section 2 

Each standing committee will elect a chair and other officers as needed. 

Section 3 

All committees will meet in September. Other meetings may be scheduled during the year as needed. 

Section 4 

Each committee will keep minutes of its meetings and file an annual report with the Faculty Senate in April. 

Section 5 

The membership of the committees will be determined by the Faculty Senate through the 

Appointments Committee or directly by the Faculty Senate. All members of the committees will be chosen by the last meeting in May. 

Section 6 - Standing Committees Functions 

A. Appointments Committee (AC) 

The Appointments Committee will supervise the filling of vacancies on all Senate committees, except where the Senate appoints members directly. They will keep appropriate records of the terms of office and they will be in charge of keeping a file of the official records of all committee minutes. At the end of every year, the committee will file a copy of all official records with the BHSU Library Archives. The Vice President of the Faculty Senate chairs this committee and is a non-voting member. The membership of the committee shall include one member from each college. Regular terms will be three (3) years, staggered at one-year intervals, with terms expiring in the spring. Upon leaving office, the (now former) Vice-President will become a one-year additional member of the Appointments Committee. 

B. University Curriculum Committee (UCC) 

The Curriculum Committee will be responsible for studying, approving, and making recommendations to the Senate concerning any changes made in the curriculum in any area of the University. This will include course and program request changes. The membership of the committee shall include three members from each college. Regular terms for members from each college will be three Faculty Senate Bylaws April 2012—Page 4 of 4 

(3) years, staggered at one-year intervals so terms of one member from each college will expire each spring. 

C. Distinguished Faculty Awards Committee (FAC) 

The Distinguished Faculty Awards Committee will be responsible for recommending a nominee for the award to the Senate and the Provost, as established in the policy approved in 2011. They may establish other faculty awards as they deem appropriate. 

The Vice President of the Faculty Senate chairs the committee and is a non-voting member. The committee is composed of all those who have previously received this award, who serve until they retire or leave the university. 

D. General Education Committee (GEC) 

The General Education Committee will be responsible for studying, approving, and making recommendations to the Senate concerning the general education requirements for BHSU students; and for preparing and writing the General Education assessment report for the Assessment Committee. The committee is composed of at least nine (9) faculty members, chosen for their contributions to, knowledge of, and interest in general education. There must be at least one member from each college. Terms are for three (3) years and are staggered. 

E. Library/Educational Media Committee (LEMC) 

The Library/Educational Media Committee will make recommendations to the Director of the Library and the Coordinator of the Educational Media Center for the acquisition and distribution of materials and the implementation of procedures and policies relating to the Library and the Educational Media Center. The committee is composed of at least eight (8) members, chosen for their interest in and use of the library. There must be at least one member from each of the colleges. Terms are for three years and are staggered. 

Bylaws adopted __________________, 1995 

Approved by Senate: February 15, 1995 

Amended September 10, 1998 

Amended April 5, 2006 

Amended April 16, 2008 

IMPLEMENTATION CLAUSE: this Constitution and Bylaws will go into effect immediately after ratification by two-thirds (2/3) of the faculty in April 2008. 

Bylaws Article III amended May 4, 2011. 

Bylaws amended April 18, 2012. 

Current Year: SY 2023-2024

September 6, 2023

September 20, 2023  

October 4, 2023

October 18, 2023

November 1, 2023

November 15, 2023

December 6, 2023

January 17, 2024

February 7, 2024

February 21, 2024

March 20, 2024

April 3, 2024

April 17, 2024

Archived Minutes

Access Here

Dr. Stewart Bellman 

1995 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Stewart Bellman was a professor of English at Black Hills State University with a doctorate from USD.  He was a dedicated and beloved professor who worked to continually improve teaching and learning. From 1966 to 1996, Bellman was a champion of both students and faculty, befriending and mentoring new faculty as they arrived, and inspiring students to achieve high educational goals. He served as president of the South Dakota Council of Teachers of English and chaired the South Dakota Humanities Council. Recognizing the need for faculty development, he obtained many grants from the Bush Foundation for teaching and computer workshops, which helped to establish BHSC as a viable and competitive university. In addition, he sought to build community among state colleges by founding the Dakota Writing Project, with universities working cooperatively to expand the use of writing as a tool used across the curriculum. His love and support for the arts and humanities led him to start a monthly Brown Bag Lecture Series that has continued for more than 25 years at the Matthews Opera House.

Fred Heidrich

1996 Distinguished Faculty

Fred Heidrich taught business classes at BHSU for 28 years. Heidrich also served as department chair and interim dean of the College of Business. Heidrich was proud of the way the business programs had evolved, and he helped instigate the addition of several popular new majors, including marketing, business services management and health services administration. Over the years, Heidrich's teaching philosophy revolved around his strong belief that “students learn best by doing." His demanding Business Writing course was feared by many students, yet they found it helped them immensely with their careers. Heidrich felt that some of the highlights of his professional career included the opportunity to visit the New York Stock Exchange, the improvements in the business curriculum, his service on the Strategic Planning Committee, and the honor of being named the Distinguished Faculty member by his peers.

Dr. David B. Miller

1997 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. David B. Miller was a professor of history, with an MA from the University of Illinois and a Ph.D. from the University of Kansas. He was a popular teacher; his gruff personality and wry humor endeared him to students. The BHSU University's Student Senate chose him as the Outstanding Faculty member in 1987, 1989, and 1993. Dr. Miller wrote many books and articles, mostly about history, including The South Dakota Story which was used as a textbook in South Dakota middle schools. He was an active environmentalist and served as a consultant for the US Park Service, the National Park Service, the Bureau of Land management, the State Historical Society, and the South Dakota Archaeological Research Center. He was a board member of the South Dakota Humanities council, which chose him as its Friend of the Humanities in 1993. In 1997 Dr. David Miller was awarded the Robinson Award from the State Historical Society, honoring his lifetime of achievement. That year, Governor Janklow had a day named in his honor. The BHSU student union was also named in his honor.

Dr. Janeen Larsen

1998 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Janeen Larsen began teaching music courses at BHSU in 1978. She received Master of Music degrees in both piano performance and musicology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and a PhD in music education from the University of Florida. Larsen taught courses in piano, music history, music appreciation and music theory, and served as Chair of Fine Arts from 2001- 2010. She performed frequently in the region as both a classical and jazz pianist, and published a book, A Primer for Jazz Pianists. She was a presenter on a variety of music and education topics at regional and national conferences. Larsen founded the BHSU Friends of Music Scholarship organization, and after retirement continued to be visible in the community as a mentor, performer, speaker, and fundraiser coordinator.

Janet Golliher

1999 Distinguished Faculty

Janet Golliher, assistant professor of physical education, began teaching and coaching at BHSU in 1976. She received her undergraduate degree from Northern Illinois University and completed her master's degree in 1972 from the University of North Carolina. Golliher, a strong advocate of lifelong learning, began as a women's varsity coach and instructor. After more than a decade of coaching she decided to focus primarily on teaching and advising students, particularly in the area of outdoor education. She was the driving force for the outdoor education major, and foresaw continued growth in that area of study.in this area as people became more concerned with environmental issues. Students and faculty loved her positive, unflagging energy and enthusiasm.

Dr. Howard Perry

2000 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Howard Perry received his master’s and PhD from the University of Northern Colorado. He began teaching business courses at BHSU in 1965. From typewriters to keypunch cards to computerized classrooms, Perry saw business education evolve through four decades of changes. Perry taught almost every business education course that was offered. His colleagues and students saw him as uncomplicated yet diplomatic, practical, and always friendly. He often said “Why reinvent the wheel. Let’s be flexible and adapt the idea to what is needed and can be used.” He served on many state and local boards and was active in many community organizations. In addition, Perry was an avid (his family says rabid) supporter of BHSU and local athletics, serving as a coach, timer, and participant for many different sports.

Kent Meyers

2001 Distinguished Faculty

Kent Meyers began his college education as a chemistry major but soon discovered a passion for writing. He changed his major to English and eventually completed a Masters in English at the University of Minnesota. He taught a variety of writing classes at BHSU for 30 years. In addition to his inspirational and effective teaching, Myers was an accomplished, prolific, and disciplined writer: every morning he awoke at 5:00 am and wrote for 3 hours before coming to campus. In 2006 he was named a Writer-in-Residence at BHSU. Myers published a memoir, a book of short fiction, and five novels, many of which have been listed as New York Times Notable Books. His work has won numerous honors, including a Society of Midland Authors Award; a High Plains Book Award; and the prestigious South Dakota One-Book designation.  In addition, Myers has published fiction and essays in various literary journals and magazines, including Harper’s and The Georgia Review. After retirement, he continued to write, publish, and mentor young writers.

Dr. Patricia Fallbeck

2002 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Patricia Fallbeck received her bachelor’s degree in Elementary and Special Education from Black Hills State University, her Master’s Degree from the University of Minnesota, and her Doctorate from the University of Northern Colorado. She taught in public schools in classrooms for pupils with intellectual disability, learning disabilities, and emotional disturbances. In 1972 she began teaching for the College of Education at Black Hills State University, a position she held for 30 years. During that time, she introduced technology into the Teacher Education Program. She was active in many Special Education organizations and was a Fellow of the American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. Upon retirement, Pat and her husband, Dr. Thomas Timmons, moved to Hawaii. They became influential Master Gardeners there, following their life-long interest in botany and ethnobotany

Dr. Thomas R. Hills

2003 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Thomas R. Hills, born in Oacoma SD, was a professor of political science from 1969-2003. He received his B. Ed from BHSU, and his Masters and EdD from the University of Oregon. As a teacher, his love for his subject and his respect for his students resulted in classes that were educational and enjoyable. In addition to teaching many classes in his field, Hills was an effective and respected Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. His dedication to BHSU in terms of its reputation, growth, and quality was exemplary. Hills also served as a campus coordinator for the South Dakota Legislative Internship Program for 25 years. After retirement, Hills served as a Republican member for the 31st district in the South Dakota House of Representatives from 2005 to 2008.  Hills also continued his many outdoor pursuits in his beloved Black Hills.

Albin Sandau

2004 Distinguished Faculty

Albin Sandau began his tenure as a theatre professor at Black Hills State in 1974 and retired in 2004. In his three decades at BHSU, he directed or assisted with the direction of nearly 160 theatre productions. He believed that “theatre provides students a different way of thinking about the world.” Sandau was born in Beulah, N.D., and received his bachelor’s degree in English/speech/journalism at Wartburg College and his master’s degree in speech/theater at the University of South Dakota. He was drafted and served as a Sergeant in the Vietnam War: U.S. Army First Battalion, 40th Artillery (1967-68). Sandau was a remarkable person who taught his students every aspect of theatrical production: acting, directing, lighting, playwriting, set construction, and costuming. He modeled compassion, humility and generosity, and he unselfishly “parented” hundreds of students over the years. He was greatly loved by his students and colleagues, who will never forget him.

Dr. James Hesson

2005 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. James Hesson, professor of biokinetics in the division of physical education and health since 1990, earned his doctoral degree from Brigham Young University in 1980, studying the scientific basis of human motion.  Hesson earned bachelor's and master's degrees in physical education, health, and athletic coaching from the University of Nebraska in Lincoln. Hesson, a lifelong promoter of health and wellness, taught with enthusiasm and enjoyment, according to his students. He is passionate about the benefits of weight training and fitness as a lifetime activity. He has written several books on fitness activities and reviews new textbooks for several publishing companies. Hesson worked every summer for 10 years, beginning in 1993, at the United States Olympic Training Center (USOC) in Colorado Springs. From 1970 to 1971 he served in Vietnam as a United States Army Airborne Ranger, and he was awarded two Bronze Stars

Dr. Randall Royer

2006 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Randall Royer received a B.A. degree from SDSU; a Master of Arts degree from the University of Wyoming; and a Ph.D. in music education from the University of Utah. Before joining the BHSU faculty as a woodwind specialist and band director, Royer taught and directed school instrumental music in Wyoming for over 17 years. Since joining the BHSU faculty in 1997, Royer taught nine different classes as well as private lessons on flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, guitar, string bass, bass guitar and percussion.  Royer was described by his peers as an outstanding teacher who showed excellence in teaching, research, performance, scholarship and other creative endeavors. He was proud of his music students, many of whom became highly effective music teachers. His deep concern for public education led him to accept the full-time position of Leadership Development and Teacher Placement Director for the Associated School Boards of South Dakota in Pierre in 2012. In retirement, Royer continued to perform regularly on guitar and woodwind instruments.

Dr. Ahrar Ahmad

2007 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Randall Royer received a B.A. degree from SDSU; a Master of Arts degree from the University of Wyoming; and a Ph.D. in music education from the University of Utah. Before joining the BHSU faculty as a woodwind specialist and band director, Royer taught and directed school instrumental music in Wyoming for over 17 years. Since joining the BHSU faculty in 1997, Royer taught nine different classes as well as private lessons on flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, guitar, string bass, bass guitar and percussion.  Royer was described by his peers as an outstanding teacher who showed excellence in teaching, research, performance, scholarship and other creative endeavors. He was proud of his music students, many of whom became highly effective music teachers. His deep concern for public education led him to accept the full-time position of Leadership Development and Teacher Placement Director for the Associated School Boards of South Dakota in Pierre in 2012. In retirement, Royer continued to perform regularly on guitar and woodwind instruments.

Dr. Ronnie Theisz

2008 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Ronnie Theisz was a professor of English and Chairperson of the Department of Humanities from 1977-2008. He grew up in Austria, attending the prestigious Mozarteum music conservatory. While studying in college in New York City, he befriended members of a Lakota drum group. From that point on, he became deeply involved with Lakota culture. He taught at Sinte Gleska College, Rosebud, from 1972-77, and he was an original member of the Lakota drum group, The Porcupine Singers. He taught courses in Native Studies and Literature at Black Hills State University, and published articles, poems, and books about Lakota culture, including Sharing the Gift of Lakota Song and Standing in the Light: A Lakota Way of Seeing. He also created educational films and served as a consultant for several commercial films, including Dances with Wolves. In addition to his scholarly work, Theisz established the first high school soccer team in Spearfish, and the Ronnie Theisz Soccer Field remains a testament to his legacy.

Dr. Cheryl Anagnopoulos

2009 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Cheryl Anagnopoulos received her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Chicago, and her Master’s and Doctoral degree in Experimental Psychology from the University of Kansas. Since 1993 she has taught a variety of psychology courses at BHSU, including Lifespan Psychology, Psychology of Women, General Psychology, and Cognitive Psychology. She is highly respected by her students, and she has become a leader in undergraduate research. Anagnopoulos is an expert in cognition, memory and the psychology of aging. She has actively pursued her research, focusing on memory changes and language performance in older adults, publishing numerous peer-reviewed articles in her field. She was awarded the first NIH grant received at BHSU. In addition, she has received grants from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. Recently, she has expanded her studies to develop an understanding of gendered aging.

Dr. David Wolff

2010 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. David Wolff has a Ph.D. in history from Arizona State University as well as a master’s degree in history from the University of Wyoming.  His enthusiastic and passionate interest in the Black Hills was a perfect fit for BHSU, where he taught courses in South Dakota and Black Hills History. He also served as Dean of the College of Liberal Arts. Students enjoyed his courses immensely, as he was an engaging and animated lecturer. He was also a prolific writer, publishing books including several biographies of famous Black Hills historical figures and history tour guides. Wolff received several awards, including the Mining History Association’s Rodman Paul Award, and the Governor’s Robinson Memorial Award for History. In addition, Wolff served on the Board of Trustees for the South Dakota State Historical Society and Deadwood’s Adams Museum & House. In retirement, he continued to write books on history and was a popular lecturer and presenter in the region.

Dr. James Hess

2011 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. James Hess received his master’s and doctorate degrees from Oklahoma State University and taught at BHSU for nearly 40 years. He offered many popular classes in psychology, enriched by his experiences in counseling. He served as the Chair of Behavioral Sciences for nearly a decade. He was greatly respected and loved by his students. He encouraged them, validated their strivings, and earnestly shared his wisdom. Years later, former students would contact him to say, “You taught me in this year, and this is how you changed my life.” In addition to teaching, Hess had many successes in entrepreneurial business and was able to engage in extensive philanthropy. Because he was concerned with generating a spirit of volunteerism within this community, he established the Make A Difference Initiative Scholarship at BHSU by donating $1 million dollars to support students with tuition funds. The scholarship requires recipients to give back to the community, resulting in outstanding projects for Spearfish and the Black Hills area.  

James Knutson

2012 Distinguished Faculty

James Knutson, a 1972 BHSU art graduate, was a member of the BHSU faculty for 36 years. He received his Master of Arts and his Master of Fine Arts degrees from the University of Wyoming. He taught many different courses in arts education, mastering many art mediums, and regularly displayed his paintings in the region. Knutson served on several state arts boards and was a leader in the area of arts assessment. He received a grant from the Chiesman Foundation for a project, Rendering Democracy, in which he selected and displayed posters from WWI and WWII. Knutson was known for his excellence in teaching and for his creative talents in expanding appreciation of the arts at BHSU and throughout the community.

Steve Babbitt

2013 Distinguished Faculty

Steve Babbitt earned a Bachelors and Master of Fine Art in Photography from The San Francisco Art Institute. He moved to South Dakota when his wife decided to enter medical school in her home state. After urging from a friend, he started teaching a new photography course at BHSU in 1995. He eventually developed his photography program to become one of the top programs in the Midwest, with students winning many awards. Babbitt earned a strong reputation for his visionary leadership, exceptional teaching and caring mentorship of his students. As an artist, Professor Babbitt has been making photographs and lens-based images for the past 50 years, working with digital and silver in both black and white and color. His photographs can be found in the collections of The Bibliothèque Nationale, Paris, France; The Getty Museum Library, Santa Monica, CA; The Tokyo Metropolitan Museum of Photography in Japan, The Dahl Art Center and the San Francisco Art Institute, and many others.

Jace DeCory

2014 Distinguished Faculty

Jace DeCory received her bachelor’s degree in Anthropology from the Univ. of North Dakota, and a M. Ed in Counseling and Guidance from SDSU. Starting at BHSU in 1984, DeCory taught a wide variety of American Indian Studies courses in the cross-disciplines of history, sociology, anthropology and ethnobotany. She was an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, with family ties to other Lakota Nations. DeCory gave hundreds of cultural presentations on topics including Lakota history, art, philosophy, American Indian women and cultural change. As a colleague stated, “Her passion for teaching, her compassion for her students and her integrity as a teacher are both obvious and infectious.” Her spirituality and her love for her culture and family were respected by all who knew her. DeCory “felt blessed to do something I love and to do it in our sacred Black Hills.” She credited Lakota elders for providing guidance, prayers and support throughout her life.  

Dr. Robert Schurrer

2014 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Robert Schurrer taught courses in physiology, nutrition, wellness, fitness assessment and wellness evaluation. He served as the program coordinator for the exercise science program, which had exponential growth from 23 students in 1990 to 206 majors in 2014 In addition. Schurrer spent significant time advising and providing educational and career guidance to students. He authored numerous publications in the area of sports performance and the health aspects of exercise and has made significant contributions to research and application of research findings in tribal communities. Schurrer developed, in collaboration with local tribes, a culturally tailored diabetes self-management education curriculum, and he trained health educators on disseminating the information to tribal members with diabetes. Students found his classes to be highly entertaining, and very useful.

Dr. Nicolas Wallerstein

2015 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Nicolas Wallerstein was born and raised in Concord, Massachusetts. He holds a BA in English and Latin literature from the University of California-Santa Cruz; a PhD in English from the University of Oregon; and a master’s degree in theology from Harvard.  He taught classes in early British poetry, classical Roman poetry, post-WW II poetry, Biblical literature, and communication. He also taught seminars in modern and contemporary poetry and literature. His research is in rhetorical, linguistic, and theological approaches to Medieval, Renaissance, and modern literature, and his numerous scholarly articles have appeared in a variety of publications. His studies in languages include Greek, Latin, Hebrew, Old and Middle English, and modern French; and he produced original translations of the Latin odes of Horace and Old English elegies. Above all else, Wallerstein believed that “it is better to light one candle than to curse the darkness.”

Dr. Parthasarathi Nag

2016 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Parthasarathi Nag received Baccalaureate and Masters degree in Electrical Engineering from institutions in India and completed his Masters and PhD in Mathematics from Washington State University. He has served as a Professor of Mathematics at BHSU since Fall of 2004 and has taught various courses including advanced level courses like Topology, Abstract Algebra, Real Analysis. Dr. Nag has also directed several Honors thesis which included research topics in Mathematical Physics and Control Theory. In addition to that Dr. Nag has directed several summer REU which included projects primarily in Mathematical Physics. He is currently serving as the Undergraduate Research Coordinator which involves working with undergraduate students and faculty for possible presentation in national conference like NCUR or the yearly undergraduate research symposium held at BHSU. Dr. Nag has published and presented papers at major mathematics conferences, often collaborating with colleagues in different disciplines and areas of research.  These collaborations was extremely helpful in securing and working on several research grants from Department of Education, NIMH and NSF.  Dr. Nag enjoys speaking about mathematics, physics, machine learning and stressing the importance of collaboration between various fields and the importance of imagination or creativity to conduct research. His research interests include mathematical physics, control systems, power systems and machine learning amongst many other new and complex scientific ideas.

Dr. John Alsup

2017 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. John Alsup received his Ph.D. and M.A. in Mathematics Education from the University of Wyoming; B.A. in Mathematics from the University of Colorado at Boulder; and M.A. and B.A. in Classical Languages from the University of Utah. Alsup has taught math to middle, high school and college students for almost 50 years, and has no plans to stop teaching. A colleague said, “I think he is one of the best teachers on campus as far as being personal with the students, willing to help after school and different times whenever it works for them.”. Alsup is constantly looking for new ways to involve students in problem solving and making math meaningful. Alsup has performed as an actor in many BHSU productions, and has sung in the university choir. He is also an avid world traveler, after being inspired while teaching math in rural Tanzania

Dr. Laura Colmenero-Chilberg

2018 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Laura Colmenero-Chilberg received her PhD in Sociology from SDSU. She came to Black Hills State University in 2005, bringing over twenty years’ experience as an educator in public schools, and as a corporate trainer. She taught courses in Sociology and served as program coordinator for the Master of Science in Strategic Leadership. She also served as senior editor for Great Plains Sociological. Her research activities include investigating gender role imagery in popular fiction, the work/home imbalance found in American families, and the changing images in popular culture. She taught courses on the family, collective behavior, gender roles, and urban sociology. After 45 years of teaching, she said, “I’ve always loved the process of education and learning and the engagement with students at a variety of levels helping them learn new things, to think about how what they’ve learned applies in real life, and to understand the importance of continuing to learn throughout their lives.”

Dr. Courtney Huse Wika

2019 Distingusihed Faculty

Dr. Courtney Huse Wika received her BA in philosophy and English from Augustana University, and her MA and PHD in English with a specialization in creative writing from USD. She teaches English, specializing in creative writing, young adult literature, and cultural studies. As a Spearfish native, her happiest day was returning to teach at Black Hills State University. Her prize-winning creative work has appeared in many diverse journals including North American Review and South Dakota Review, and she is the author of Perch, a book of nature poetry. “The gorgeously organic poems of place, nature, animals and memory in Perch are infused with light, sky, and birdsong, and pierced by haunting moments of loss and loneliness,” said SD poet laureate Lee Ann Roripaugh. In addition to her poems, Huse Wika has published many critical pieces exploring various aspects of literature and its relation to society. Her service to the university has included director of both the University Honors Program and the Writing Assistance Center, and she founded the popular monthly Geek Speak series

Dr. Holly Downing

2020 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Holly Downing served as the Dean of Arts and Science and as a professor of biology, animal behavior and entomology at BHSU for 22 years. She graduated from Smith College, BS Zoology; University of Wisconsin-Madison, MS Entomology; and University of Wisconsin-Madison, PhD Entomology. She served as administrative director for the Johanna Meier Opera Theatre Institute for 14 years, successfully acquiring external funding to support the program.  Downing served on the faculty senate, multiple strategic planning committees and numerous university and college committees.  In addition, she served on the Mathews Opera House Board, the South Dakota Humanities Council and South Dakota Alliance for Arts Education.  She has published 19 research papers in internationally and nationally recognized journals and a book chapter. Downing’s words of wisdom: “As you plan for your future, be imaginative, be flexible, and remember to have fun along the way.”

Dr. Tim Steckline

2021 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Tim Steckline has a Ph.D. from the University of Iowa, an MA from the University of Iowa in Rhetorical Studies; and a BA degree in speech communication and English from the University of Northern Colorado. Steckline taught 14 different classes in mass communication, speech communication, film history and philosophy. He consistently presented at the Western Literature Association conference for 20 years. He was also actively involved with the Indian Studies program, the annual Wacipi, and other Native American activities. He served as treasurer and president of COHE, vice-president and president of Faculty Senate and participated on the Library and Education Resources Committee and with the Western Interstate Commission for Higher Education. Steckline, a popular and highly respected professor, was known for being a caring, kind, and encouraging leader both within and outside the classroom.

President Kay Schallenkamp

2022 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Colin Garnett joined the mathematics faculty at Black Hills State University as Assistant Professor in 2013, with a Ph.D. in mathematics from the University of Wyoming. In his years at BHSU, Professor Garnett became known for his collegiality and commitment to his students. His teaching consistently received top rankings on the student opinion surveys conducted at the end of each course, and he received the College of Liberal Arts Outstanding Teaching Award for the 2019-2020 academic year. Garnett is an active scholar with publications in the areas of graphic theory, combinatorial matrix theory and combinatorics. He received the College of Liberal Arts Outstanding Research, Scholarship, and Creative Activity Award for the 2015-2016 academic year and has served as a reviewer, referee, and contributing editor for respected academic publications in mathematics. In addition, he regularly provides enrichment activities for college and high school students.

Dr. Susan Dana

2023 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Susan Dana received a J.D. and MBA from USD and a B.S. Business Administration from the University of Nebraska. Dana has been at BHSU in the School of Business since 1998. She teaches business law and has also instructed courses in statistics and human resource management. Dana was awarded the College of Business and Natural Sciences Outstanding Teaching Award for the 2013-14 academic year as well as the College of Business and Natural Sciences Outstanding Service Award in both 2017-18 and 2021-22. Dana serves as the School of Business internship coordinator and is the faculty advisor for Beta Gamma Sigma, the business academic honor society. She was instrumental in establishing the new accounting club, “Kicking Assets,” which was recognized as the Outstanding New Student Organization on campus. Students appreciate her knowledge of business law and enjoy that her lectures are filled with interesting legal case examples.

Dr. Nancy Roberts

2024 Distinguished Faculty

Dr. Nancy Roberts began teaching at BHSU 2007 after completing her Doctor of Music History in Voice at the University of Kansas. She teaches classes in elementary music education, private voice, vocal pedagogy, and opera. Roberts is an accomplished vocal performer and frequently has been a featured soloist for concerts at BHSU as well as for major orchestral groups in the region. She is regularly asked to serve as a music competition judge; conducts master classes; and volunteers at local schools to assist music programs. She has directed several major theatrical productions at BHSU and at Matthews Opera House. Many of her voice students have won or placed in state competitions in South Dakota and North Dakota. Roberts serves as the accreditation representative for the music department and has been on several search committees and the faculty senate. She has also served on the campus Emergency Planning committee providing feedback on how to keep the campus safe. She is remarkably unselfish with her time and energy and her current and former students always speak of her in glowing terms. "Nancy exemplifies all that is outstanding at BHSU,” a faculty nominator said of her. “She embodies the personal investment and commitment to excellence that BHSU seeks to promote.”