[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 83 (Tuesday, June 5, 2012)] [Senate] [Page S3728] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTAMr. JOHNSON of South Dakota. Mr. President, today I wish to pay tribute to my alma mater, the University of South Dakota, on their 150th anniversary. Throughout its history, USD has been a shining example of excellence in education, research, and service. USD consistently produces extraordinary graduates, prepared for the complex challenges of modern-day society. Founded in 1862 in Vermillion, USD has the distinction of being South Dakota's oldest university. Since its founding, the campus has grown from one building to 63, serving a student population of nearly 10,000. USD offers a complete range of undergraduate and graduate programs of study, as well as the only schools of law and medicine in South Dakota. Students are well-served by USD's liberal arts tradition, which encourages interdisciplinary study. This produces adaptable, well- rounded graduates, prepared for the ever-changing world. USD students have been awarded some of the most prestigious honors in academia including Rhodes, Fulbright, Truman, Udall, and Goldwater Scholarships. Graduate and undergraduate students frequently collaborate one-on-one with USD's dedicated faculty to conduct research. This high degree of collaboration is enabled by the university's 15 1 student-faculty ratio. Athletics are an important part of university life, and USD is no exception. The iconic DakotaDome is the cornerstone of USD Coyote athletics. This multipurpose 145,000 square foot structure has brought fans and athletes together for more than 30 years. The Coyotes have made the jump to division I, bringing increased exposure and a higher level of competition to the athletic program. It is a great pleasure to have this opportunity to honor the University of South Dakota for 150 years of academic success. USD is a family tradition; it is where I met my wife, Barbara, and when it was time for our three children to attend college they all chose USD. The world-class education I received at USD gave me skills and knowledge that serve me well to this today. I congratulate my good friend, President Jim Abbott, and the entire USD community on this milestone in the rich history of the university. As an alumnus, I would be remiss if I didn't close my statement with, ``Go Yotes!'' ____________________