Each Women in Philanthropy Initiative is a testament to or our shared commitment to advancing student experience. We'd love to continue building momentum and energy for our 2023 Firestarter Initiatives. So, we're stretching our fundraising goal to $30,000! Can you help us get there?
More than a single program or organization, the University of South Dakota Women in Philanthropy network is a movement – a union of like-minded women utilizing diverse talents, backgrounds and experiences to enhance the university and positively impact its students.
By supporting this network of passionate philanthropists, Women In Philanthropy serves as a Firestarter for emerging programs and initiatives across campus. Projects like Charlie’s Cupboard, Elevate, Cultural Wellness Center, Native Student Services Living Learning Community and Charlie’s Closet, all of which received initial funding from Women In Philanthropy, have enhanced the student experience at USD.
“When women come together, they get things done.” – President Sheila K. Gestring
Each year, Women In Philanthropy provides Firestarter Grants to new and impactful programs across campus. The 2023 Firestarter Initiatives are as follows:
Spiderwoman Theatre
Spiderwoman Theatre is a multigenerational, indigenous women’s theatre project designed to bring together performers, designers, and cultural practitioners from Native and First Nations communities. Through weeklong residencies across the country, the goal of this program is to entertain and challenge communities and create an environment where the Indigenous, women’s and arts communities can come together to facilitate discussions around cultural, societal, and political concerns. Spiderwoman Theatre will be coming to the University of South Dakota this spring.
USD Fellowship for the Underrepresented in Science and Engineering (USD FUSE)
Aiming to increase representation of women in STEM (science, engineering, technology and mathematics), USD FUSE will inspire South Dakota high school students to explore STEM programs through intentional outreach and experiences. This program will also engage undergraduate students in mentorship and training experiences, designed to connect them with the South Dakota STEM community for career development.
Graduate School Student Success Series: Professional Development
The Graduate School Professional Development Program will provide campus-wide skill development opportunities to graduate students including oral presentation, writing and reporting, communication strategies, interviewing and negotiation, and more. Throughout this program, students will participate in a workshop series facilitated by a select group faculty and staff across campus.
Join us in supporting these and other impactful programs at the University of South Dakota.
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