South Dakota State Geography Convention

The South Dakota State Geography Convention is a prestigious and long-standing event organized by the Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences. As the longest-running student-organized annual meeting in the United States, it serves as a platform for both academic and applied geographers. Each spring, around 10 distinguished geographers from the region, the country, and Canada are invited to present their research and findings, fostering knowledge exchange among students, alumni, and professionals in the field. The convention is designed to promote enthusiasm for geography through a combination of professional presentations, discussions, and social activities. Taking place at the University Student Union in Brookings, the convention offers a rich agenda. The first day, known as Student Day, features a welcome address by the Geography Club President and a poster session where participants can showcase their work. The poster session is judged from 10 a.m. to noon, encouraging students to engage and demonstrate their research capabilities. Social activities, including a gathering at Old Fire Hall, provide networking opportunities. The second day culminates in a significant awards banquet where the achievements of outstanding students and alumni from the Department of Geography and Geospatial Sciences are recognized. This year's banquet will feature a special guest, the president of the American Association of Geographers, who will deliver remarks and contribute to the celebration of geography as a discipline. Closing remarks will be provided by Trevor Hatch, the Geography Club president, bringing the convention to a thoughtful conclusion. The convention's history dates back to 1967 when geography was reestablished in the curriculum at South Dakota State University, leading to the formation of the Geography Club and the chartering of the Gamma Theta Upsilon honor society chapter. The convention continues to thrive, celebrating the academic discipline and helping to shape the future of geography students.