For Release May 08

BROOKINGS—The South Dakota Board of Regents, meeting at South Dakota State University today, presented awards to student organizations at South Dakota State University and the University of South Dakota. Regents President James O. Hansen presented the awards on behalf the Board. "Educating young people for life, not just for academic programs, is what higher education is all about. These young people have learned valuable lessons about contributing to their communities. The Regents want to recognize them for their efforts," said Hansen.

The award for academic excellence at USD was given to the Alpha Rho Chapter of Kappa Alpha Theta. Chartered early in this century, Kappa Alpha Theta stresses scholastic achievement. Since 1991 the Theta chapter has earned the highest grade point average among the four sororities on campus. Accepting the award on behalf of the sorority was Jason Schulte, student association president.

Rho Chi Honor Society at SDSU received the academic excellence award. The Tau Chapter provides pharmacy students an opportunity to present their research experiences, assist students who want to improve grades, and provide guidance to students pursuing graduate education. The organization offers tutoring services and access to computer based instruction. This is the seventh consecutive year that Rho Chi has won the academic excellence award. Tony Kauten, a representative of the organization, accepted the award for the group.

The award for organizational leadership at USD was given to Health Enhancement Led by Peers (HELP). The 25 members gave more than 50 presentations in classrooms, fraternities and sororities, and residence halls. Programs developed by HELP focused on alcohol awareness, AIDS, and many other events. Bryce Kyburz and Krystal Paulsen accepted the award for HELP.

The Collegiate 4-H at SDSU was given the award for organizational leadership. Collegiate 4-H promotes community service and student leadership by focusing on younger and teenage 4-H members. Some of the activities for the year included hosting the 4-H Clover Classic, which emphasizes educational and leadership workshops, and Little International Livestock Exposition. accepting the award for the organization was Dusty Oedekover.

President James Abbott of USD presented the students to the Regents. The SDSU students were introduced by President Peggy Elliott.

"These students represent the best of our young people. We hope that they continue on the paths they have chosen and provide leadership and service to South Dakota in years to come," said Regent Pat Lebrun, chair of the Regents subcommittee on academic and student affairs.