Behind the Dean's Desk
Dean Amy Schweinle
School of Education
What led you to this opportunity?
My University of South Dakota origin story always makes me smile. I am originally from Texas and was more than a little nervous about moving to the frozen north. My first trip to the Dakotas came in 2003 for a job interview for an assistant professor position. At the time, my plan was simple: accept the job, gain experience, and eventually move on to a university in what I considered a more reasonable climate.
“I did interview elsewhere, and I did receive other offers. However, I turned them down.
The University of South Dakota and the community of Vermillion ultimately won me over. I chose to stay, make this place my home, and I have not applied for a position outside the university since. I am deeply invested in both this community and the university, working to strengthen each so that others may experience the same sense of belonging and purpose that I have found here.
What excites you most about your school/college at USD right now?
What excites me most right now is building a School of Education where work-based learning is not viewed as an add-on, but instead serves as the foundation of how students experience their education. I am energized by creating clearer, more connected pathways that allow students to move seamlessly from coursework into meaningful roles within schools and communities, and ultimately into careers or graduate programs.
We are advancing this work through strong and authentic partnerships, intentional program design, and meaningful mentorship opportunities. When we get that right, we are doing more than preparing students for future success—we are actively strengthening the workforce and creating lasting impacts within communities across our region.
What's your favorite USD tradition?
This is a hard question. There are so many things to enjoy for so many reasons: the annual Wacipi, Dakota Days, Graduation, and more. But I especially enjoy Orientation and Welcome Week. The entire community wakes up to embrace new students and welcome back returning students. Students from all over the world come together with excitement to start a new year fresh. The entire community is engaged—town and gown—in a real coming home.
When you're not working, how do you like to spend your time?
When not working at the University of South Dakota, I spend my time working with my horses, participating in 4-H activities, and engaging in multiple community initiatives.
Being a Coyote means ________.
Being a part of and making community.