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Student Engagement Center

Explore This Section
Explore This Section

Success Starts with Support

The Student Engagement Center supports student success by creating connection and community that fosters academic, personal and professional growth. We proactively remove barriers and design pathways to ensure opportunity for all students to succeed.

The Student Engagement Center brings together key departments with similar responsibilities to strengthen collaboration and elevate service to students. Departments within the Student Engagement Center include Veterans Services and Engagement, American Indian Student Center, International Student and Scholar Engagement, Office of Student Accessibility, and Student Connection and Engagement.

Spring 2026 CommUNITY Meetings

Tunnel of Awareness

  • Tuesday, Feb. 3 from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. in the Volstorff Ballroom (SSU 100)
  • Presenters: BSA, GSA, LASA, History Club, AISA, AISES, OSA, LPW Autism Support Services

Step into the "Tunnel of Awareness," an immersive journey through history that sheds light on pivotal moments faced by various communities. Stop by interactive stations, each depicting a powerful narrative of resilience, struggle and strength. The experience aims to educate, inspire and foster a deeper understanding of the past. Navigate the tunnel and reflect on the courage depicted, leaving with a sense of hope and commitment to build a more inclusive future.

Sponsored by: Presenting Registered Student Organizations


The Power of Peaks: Adventure as a Path to Healing

  • Thursday, Feb. 19 from 7-8:30 p.m. in the Pheasant and Crest rooms (SSU 253)
  • Presenter: Stacy Bare

Brookings native Stacy Bare is a combat veteran, Bronze Star recipient and outdoor adventurer who turned mountains into medicine. Through climbing, skiing and exploration, Bare discovered the healing power of nature and built a life beyond trauma. Hear his incredible story of resilience, recovery and the transformative impact of adventure and learn how the outdoors can change lives.

Sponsored by: Veterans Services and Engagement, Armed Forces Association, Student Engagement


Wacipi 101

  • Tuesday, March 10 from 3-4 p.m. in the Pheasant and Crest rooms (SSU 253)
  • Presenters: Alejandra Juarez, Bryant Big Eagle, Harley Gullikson

Join the American Indian Student Association president, vice president and Wacipi (powwow) chair to learn about what a Wacipi is, why it matters, and how understanding its traditions and protocols can make attending a Wacipi meaningful. The presentation will also offer a behind the scenes look at how their student organization coordinates and hosts this large-scale cultural event. Wacipi 101 is your guide to attending with respect, knowledge and appreciation before their Annual Wetu Wacipi (Spring Powwow) on March 28-29, 2026.

Sponsored by: AISA, American Indian Student Center, Student Engagement


We All Have a Story to Tell

  • Wednesday, April 15 from 10-11:30 a.m. in the Pheasant and Crest rooms (SSU 253)
  • Presenters: TBD

Pause, reflect and connect during this interactive workshop. Through guided prompts, real examples and collaborative brainstorming with peers, you'll explore the experiences that have shaped who you are. This session creates space to examine identity, deepen self-awareness and strengthen cultural competence while learning how personal stories can foster understanding and connection. Discover the power of your own story!

Sponsored by: Student Engagement, School of Communication and Journalism

Three students working at the table in the union.
Icon of three people, representing community
About Us
Meet Our People

We are here to help. Meet the staff of the Student Engagement Center.

Contact Us
Photo of Student Engagement Center
Student Engagement Center
Physical Address
1421 Student Union Ln.
Brookings, SD 57007
Mailing Address
University Student Union 271, Box 2815C
Brookings, SD 57007
Hours
Mon - Fri: 8:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m.