Augustana University
WHO:
The Center for Western Studies
PROGRAM:
The Center for Western Studies at Augustana University offers students not only a unique place to study and exist in, but a place to view art. Archival expertise is housed at the center, with 500 substantive collections and 37,000 historic volumes on the American West, available to students for exploration and education. There’s also a vast collection of fine art on campus. Along with the archive and library, the space features a rotating art gallery and the preeminent exhibit, Voices of the Northern Plains . Over 70 books have been published through the Center for Western Studies. Every year, a nonfiction book is published about the Northern Plains. The center’s education associate, Kamryn Miller , earned her degree from Augustana in history and secondary education. “The history department at Augie does a good job of utilizing the Center as a way for students to do hands-on research,” said Miller. “Students are able to emulate the documenting of history, studying history, and doing the work in the archives.” The Center for Western Studies is especially a resource for the community, local academics and researchers, and people passing through the area eager to learn more by engaging with history. Various Augustana history classes are held at the Center, and Miller says the space provides more opportunities for students to directly interact with heritage, arts, culture, and history in a tangible way. “We are a hidden gem,” added Miller. “We are free and open to the public and in a space where people can come and view fine art without having to go far.” As a resource of knowledge and history, the Center is able to offer students and faculty members unique, interactive ways to learn. One way the Center for Western Studies educates and engages with students, faculty, and community members is through the Boe Forum . The Boe Forum is a yearly lecture series addressing current world or national concerns appealing to the general public and student body. "This is our premier public program we offer, typically held every spring, that aims to invest in our well-established programs and continue to grow them, continue to gain knowledge and popularity," said Miller. Events are regularly hosted at the Center for Western Studies, and Miller says their reach continues to make an impact on the communities they serve. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT AUGIE.EDU+
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