Dakota Days 2014

On November 20, 1914, an event known as South Dakota Day was created by the University of South Dakota in order to bring about school comradery. The event was formed by local townsmen and members of the university’s faculty as a way to bring students and the community together.

South Dakota Day was created under university president Robert L. Slagle as a way to gather students together to “promote campus spirit and harmony.” Throughout the years the annual homecoming celebration has evolved into a week-long extravaganza with various activities for students and alumni to attend. All of this culminates with the football game on Saturday.

Everything from the traditional talent show, to parades and floats can be found on campus or in the surrounding town of Vermillion during the annual homecoming celebration. Students select royalty, attend social events, and celebrate in much the same way USD alumni did years ago. This year’s royalty, Queen Lindsey Montileaux and King Brent Olinger, were crowned during halftime of the USD vs. UNI game on Saturday afternoon. This has been the custom since 1914.

The talent show, cleverly named “Yotes Got Talent,” takes place in Aalfs Auditorium right behind Old Main. It is a fantastic way for the school to display what its students can do outside of the classroom.

As the week of activities and events for this year’s Dakota Days wraps up for this year, it is important to look back at and reflect on what this week is about. From the talent show to the football game Dakota Days has something for everybody. This week is about student and community involvement. It is about coming together to celebrate the history and traditions of the University.