The TODAY Newspaper provides students with practical experience in mass communications and offers them a chance for an internship on a newspaper. TODAY won first place at the American Scholastic Press Association contest for colleges with enrollment of 2500 or more. Photography editor, Alan Carroll, won third place on a National Internet site for photojournalism in the feature photo division. Twenty members comprise the TODAY staff and are joined by students involved with the paper as a result of enrollment in a newspaper writing or editing class.

The American Association on Mental Retardation/Student Council for Exceptional Children (AAMR/SCEC) works to shape public policy affecting individuals with mental retardation and special needs. It also supports professionals in the field of developmental disabilities by encouraging research and education among members. Some of the organization’s activities have included a brown bag lunch series on professional topics, community social activities, and presentations at professional conferences.

"The job of a university is more than teaching academics. In the four years students spend with us, they make a transition from children to adults. Developing a sense of responsibility for their communities and learning to contribute to an organization are some of the skills that we seek to impart. These young people clearly have learned those lessons. We are very proud of their contributions," said Black Hills State University President Thomas Flickema.

Regents President Harvey Jewett, IV, of Aberdeen, said, "The Regents established these awards several years ago, and I am glad they did. There is a big difference between training someone to do a specific job and educating a person to contribute to the well-being of a community or state. The Regents value that commitment. We enjoy giving these awards because these kids live that commitment."

Max Wetz, Editor, of Newell accepted the award for TODAY. Also present for the award were Alan Carroll, Managing Editor, Justin Varland, Assistant Editor, Nikki Cloud, Page Editor, and Rachel Adams, Photography Editor. The newspapers advisors Steve Babbitt, Abdollah Farrokhi and Paul Kopco were also present.