A big change is coming for the location of the University of South Dakota School of Medicine, as it will move in 2027 from the Vermillion campus to Sioux Falls.
University leaders on Thursday said that is being changed as an opportunity to create more doctors and provide better health care in every corner of South Dakota.
USD President Shelia Gestring said students lose valuable time on the commute from Vermillion to Sioux Falls, where more medical resources are located.
Gestring said, "As home to three of the state’s four major health care systems, as well as one of our medical school campuses, Sioux Falls is a hub for health care and health care education. The work happening here and the resources available in this city help our whole state become healthier and more resilient.”
Gov. Larry Rhoden was in attendance for the announcement.
"The students standing here with us will have more opportunity for clinical experiences, and they’ll develop closer ties to South Dakota health systems,” Rhoden said.
Beginning in summer 2027, the first 18 months of USD medical school will take place entirely in Sioux Falls.
*In other South Dakota news, a recent card skimming scheme stole thousands from needy families utilizing Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program benefits.
Further complicating matters, federal government changes have removed a prime recourse for victims, leaving many unsure how to feed their families.
The money was stolen from multiple locations across Sioux Falls, and an estimated 350 families have lost part, or all, their monthly SNAP food benefits as a result.
The Department of Social Services declined to comment, and has instead issued reminders for SNAP benefit users to protect themselves from scam attempts. The DSS also encourages theft victims to report the issue to law enforcement.
The 2023 Consolidated Appropriations Act contained provisions specifically for addressing card skimming and other methods used to commit fraud. However, the 2025 American Relief Act, signed by President Biden in the waning days of his presidency, ended the program in December.
