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Sigma Xi SDSU Chapter 139 Collection

Finding Aid

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Collection Summary

Identifier

UA 50.12

Title

Sigma Xi, SDSU Chapter 139 Collection

Creator

Sigma Xi, Chapter 139, South Dakota State University

Dates

1978-2004

Extent

0.21 linear feet (1 small document case)

Language

English

Repository

South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, Brookings, South Dakota.

Access note

This collection is open to researchers without restrictions. The materials in the Archives do not circulate and may be used in-house only.

Preferred Citation

Name of item . Sigma Xi, SDSU Chapter 139 Collection. UA 50.12. South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections, Hilton M. Briggs Library, Brookings, South Dakota.

Abstract

The scientific research society, Sigma Xi, is an honorary organization whose purpose is to encourage original investigations in pure and applied sciences. This collection is composed of a history of Sigma Xi at South Dakota State University, newsletters, lecture information, graduate student research award material, and science and engineering fair information.

Historical Note

The scientific research society, Sigma Xi, is an honorary organization whose purpose is to encourage original investigations in pure and applied sciences.

During the 1940's, a group of faculty members at South Dakota State University established what was called the Natural Science Research Club. Members met once a month to hear one of the group report on his or her research findings. It was felt that this would expand the awareness of the faculty to research in progress on this campus, provide a broadened overview and discussion of various research projects, and encourage the faculty in their research effort by providing a show of interest in their work.

The Natural Science Research Club was a very active organization. After a few years, its members decided that they should establish themselves as a Sigma Xi Club, which would continue as it was already operating but, in addition, would have the advantages of formal outside contacts through the national Society. This was accomplished during 1952-53.

The number of Sigma Xi members increased significantly as the result of the influx of new personnel who had been granted membership at other institutions. By 1959, it was felt that the club was ready for chapter status. In 1960, a petition for chapter status was presented to the national office of the Society. Chapter status was granted in May of 1961.

Contents Note

This collection is composed of a history of Sigma Xi at South Dakota State University, newsletters, lecture information, graduate student research award material, and science and engineering fair information.

Key Words

Greek letter societies

Science -- Societies, etc.

Sigma Xi, Chapter 139

Container List

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Sigma Xi, SDSU Chapter 139 Collection Container List. UA 50.12

Box Folder Description Date(s)
1 1 Booklet First 25 Years at SDSU 1985
1 2 Distinguished lecture 2002, 2004
1 3 Graduate Student Research Award 2000
1 4 Nicolaus Copernicus: His Life Work, The Society of Sigma Xi by Marian Wnuk 1973
1 5 Science and Engineering Fair 1978-1985
1 6 Sigma Xi newsletter 1990

Administrative Information

Conditions Governing Access

This collection is open to researchers without restrictions. The materials in the Archives do not circulate and may be used in-house only.

Researchers conducting extensive research are asked to make an advance appointment to access archival material. Please call or e-mail prior to visiting the collection and indicate as much detail as possible about a particular topic and intended use.

South Dakota State University supports access to the materials, published and unpublished, in its collections. Nonetheless, access to some items may be restricted as a result of their fragile condition or by contractual agreements with donors.

Copyright note

Copyright restrictions apply in different ways to different materials. Many of the documents and other historical materials in the Archives are in the public domain and may be reproduced and used in any way. There are other materials in the Archive carrying a copyright interest and must be used according to the provisions of Title 17 of the U.S. Code. The Archive issues a warning concerning copyright restrictions to every researcher who requests copies of documents. Although the copyright law is under constant redefinition in the courts, it is ultimately the responsibility of the researcher to properly use copyrighted material.

Arranged and Described by

Crystal J. Gamradt, 1999 February 9, additions made 2008 November 12.