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South Dakota State University, the state's largest and most comprehensive university, serves over 12,000 students and continues to uphold its mission as a land-grant institution by providing access to higher education for all. Since its founding in 1881, ������Ƶ has made a significant impact, not only within the state but globally.

One historical example of ������Ƶ's research prowess is Edgar S. McFadden’s breakthrough in wheat genetics. In 1916, McFadden developed a wheat variety resistant to black stem rust, which laid the foundation for increased wheat production during the Green Revolution. This discovery reflects the long-standing tradition of impactful research at ������Ƶ, which continues to drive innovation today.

More recently, the Animal Disease Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at ������Ƶ identified and diagnosed avian flu in a dairy herd, and a private company born from ������Ƶ research, Medgene, developed a vaccine to protect the dairy industry. This public-private partnership has not only contributed to animal and human health but also provided economic benefits to the region by creating jobs and commercializing new technologies.

������Ƶ’s research portfolio is diverse, with significant strengths in agriculture, engineering and life sciences. As the university seeks to enhance its research profile, it has set its sights on achieving R1 classification — the highest recognition for research universities in the United States. The Carnegie Classification system, which releases updates every three years, awards R1 status to institutions with $50 million in annual research expenditures and at least 70 doctoral degrees conferred annually.

Currently classified as an R2 institution, ������Ƶ is well on its way to reaching R1 status. In FY 2024, the university achieved $84 million in research expenditures and conferred an average of 51 doctoral degrees annually over the last five years. Pathway to Premier 2030 outlines its ambition to increase doctoral degree production and continue enhancing research productivity.

R1 classification aligns perfectly with ������Ƶ's land-grant mission of knowledge creation and dissemination. It would not only strengthen the university’s reputation but also improve its ability to attract world-class faculty and students. As competition intensifies across higher education institutions, achieving R1 status would differentiate ������Ƶ, signaling its capabilities in research and innovation.

R1 classification would also provide tangible benefits to South Dakota. The increased research activity would stimulate local and state economies through new innovations, technologies and partnerships with industries. ������Ƶ’s existing infrastructure, such as the POET Bioproducts Center, is already positioned to support this growth, and future investments will ensure continued success.

Over the past 15 years, ������Ƶ has made significant investments in research infrastructure, including constructing new facilities like the Raven Precision Agriculture Center and upgrading technology systems. These investments total more than $223 million and are laying the groundwork for ������Ƶ’s expansion as a research leader. Further development, including a new data center and additional laboratory space, is planned to support the growing research enterprise.

������Ƶ has also made strides in enhancing its personnel resources. The Office of Information Technology was reorganized, and new leadership roles were created to manage the increased research capacity. In addition, ������Ƶ is committed to retaining and recruiting world-class faculty by offering competitive endowments and support for research activities.

A key component of achieving R1 status is increasing the number of research-intensive doctoral degrees conferred. The Graduate School has implemented several changes to boost doctoral enrollment, which has already increased by 31 students compared to the previous year. By 2030, ������Ƶ aims to enroll 330 doctoral students, supported by increased Ph.D. assistantships through partnerships and funding.

Ph.D. assistantships are critical for attracting top talent, providing students with hands-on research opportunities while bolstering ������Ƶ’s research output. To further support these efforts, the Graduate School is also enhancing its recruitment strategies for attracting doctoral students from across the U.S. and globally.

������Ƶ is increasing enrollment capacity in a number of its current doctoral programs and activating research-intensive doctoral programs in the social sciences, to include areas such as applied economics and rural health and well-being, to meet workforce demands and support statewide economic growth. In addition, the university will continue to offer undergraduate students high-impact research experiences, creating a pipeline for future graduate students.

Achieving R1 status by 2031 is an ambitious but attainable goal. Pathway to Premier 2030 is designed to guide the university toward this objective while enhancing the student experience and supporting South Dakota’s economic development. R1 classification will not only elevate ������Ƶ’s standing but also create opportunities for innovation and growth that will benefit the entire state.

Increased research expenditures and partnerships with industry will stimulate the local economy and position South Dakota as a leader in innovation and talent development. For investors and donors, R1 classification represents a strong return on investment. ������Ƶ is committed to pursuing this bold vision, with the ultimate goal of creating a stronger, more vibrant South Dakota for future generations.

The exercise science program in South Dakota State University's School of Health and Human Sciences launched an exclusive internship opportunity during 2024 at the St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital’s renowned Human Performance Lab in Memphis, Tennessee. The collaboration, made possible through the efforts of Evan Ortlieb, dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences, allows ������Ƶ students to work alongside leading professionals in pediatric oncology.

Ortlieb, a cancer survivor and former patient at St. Jude, established this partnership while participating in follow-up research on the long-term effects of chemotherapy. Recognizing the value of ������Ƶ’s exercise science program, he proposed the collaboration, which gives students unparalleled access to cutting-edge research and clinical practices in one of the world’s top pediatric hospitals.

The Human Performance Lab at St. Jude is widely respected for its advanced evaluation of physical fitness and function in pediatric cancer patients. Each year, one to two ������Ƶ students will be selected for this prestigious internship, where they will engage in functional testing, research data collection and patient interaction. Students will assist in research with childhood cancer patients, some of whom are newly diagnosed, while others are long-term survivors. Additionally, they will complete case studies and academic assessments as part of their clinical training.

Seth Daughters, ������Ƶ instructor and field experience coordinator, emphasized the significance of this opportunity, referencing the facility as a world-renowned lab at a world-renowned hospital where students will gain hands-on experience in their field. It's also an opportunity to build invaluable professional networks with top experts in exercise science and oncology.

This partnership marks a significant milestone for ������Ƶ’s exercise science program, further enhancing the education and preparedness of its students as they enter the workforce. Through this collaboration, ������Ƶ students will be positioned at the forefront of exercise science in pediatric oncology, ready to make meaningful contributions to patient care and research.

A new initiative at South Dakota State University is providing Native American students with hands-on research experience in science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). Led by Derek Brandis, a postdoctoral research associate, and Jihong Cole-Dai, professor of chemistry, biochemistry and physics, the project is hosted in ������Ƶ's Ice Core and Environmental Chemistry Lab. Students will work on environmental research using chemical measurements from polar ice cores and other samples to study atmospheric changes.

Brandis, a member of the Sicangu Oyate (Rosebud Sioux Tribe), emphasized the importance of this project for Native American students interested in STEM. “This grant allows me to share my experiences as a Native American in STEM and be a mentor to others,” he said. Over a six-week summer program, students will engage in two projects: measuring perchlorate in rainwater samples from South Dakota and analyzing polar ice cores to assess environmental changes.

The project’s goal is to offer research opportunities beyond typical coursework, providing students with skills and experiences that will benefit their future careers. Cole-Dai highlighted the importance of this initiative, noting that “Derek Brandis is helping Native American students discover and benefit from scientific research opportunities. His efforts will increase the contributions to science from South Dakota's Native American communities.”

One of the students, Delaney Wilson, a sophomore pre-pharmacy major and treasurer of ������Ƶ’s American Indian Science and Engineering Society chapter, jumped at the opportunity after hearing about it during a chapter meeting. Wilson, who aims to pursue a STEM career, has been learning how to use ion chromatography machines to analyze ice core samples and will later work with mass spectrometers.

Wilson will have the opportunity to present her research at the American Indian Science and Engineering Society national conference and will be mentored by Brandis in preparing her presentation.

Supported by the National Science Foundation’s Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR), this project highlights ������Ƶ’s commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion in STEM fields.

A South Dakota State University engineering team secured third place in NASA’s prestigious Revolutionary Aerospace Systems Concepts – Academic Linkage (RASC-AL) competition, held in Cocoa Beach, Florida. The recognition marks the second consecutive year an ������Ƶ team has qualified for the finals and is notable as third place has only been awarded three times in the competition’s 23-year history.

Competing in the large-scale lunar crater prospector category, ������Ƶ’s team members impressed judges with their innovative prototype, which earned them an additional award for best design.

The team, led by mechanical engineering graduate student Liam Murray, designed a rover prototype capable of exploring rugged lunar south pole craters to locate water, ice and other volatiles. Equipped with lidar and high-tech cameras, the rover aims to support NASA's long-term goal of extracting water from the moon for future missions. The ������Ƶ students competed against top schools like MIT and Stanford, finishing ahead of both.

The ������Ƶ team members’ journey wasn’t without challenges. Upon arrival in Cocoa Beach, their prototype was delayed in shipping, and once it arrived, several components were damaged. Despite these setbacks, the team worked tirelessly through late nights, using makeshift repairs to ensure its rover was operational by the final judging session. The judges were impressed by the team’s dedication and resilience, acknowledging its efforts with the best prototype award.

The team highlighted its innovative suspension system, a unique double wishbone bogie design that could lead to a patent. The system, which features eight wheels and vertical movement capabilities, was crucial in navigating the lunar terrain, a key component of the competition’s objectives.

������Ƶ’s success in the competition not only demonstrated their engineering prowess but also inspired the team members to pursue further studies. Three of the team’s mechanical engineering majors, who recently graduated, returned to ������Ƶ for master’s degrees focused on aerospace engineering. The team’s achievements and members’ groundbreaking rover design signal ������Ƶ’s growing influence in aerospace research and its potential contributions to NASA’s future missions.

In April, South Dakota State University celebrated the creation of the Mike Huether Public Service Academy, an initiative designed to cultivate leaders committed to public service. Housed within the School of American and Global Studies, the competitive two-year program launched in fall 2024, accepting students from all majors. Its mission is to equip participants with the knowledge, skills and values necessary to lead with integrity and positively impact society.

The academy is funded by ������Ƶ alumni Mike and Cindy Huether, along with businessman and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford. Mike Huether, a former two-term mayor of Sioux Falls and ������Ƶ graduate, was instrumental in establishing the program. “������Ƶ didn’t have this when I was a student, but I am thrilled that it does now,” Huether said at the event announcing the new program. His vision is to provide students passionate about public service with opportunities to learn the importance of civic engagement and collaboration.

The program blends academic rigor with hands-on experiences, including internships, service learning and education abroad. It aims to develop exceptional leaders through a curriculum focused on ethics, public administration, government and cross-cultural competence. Each year, up to 50 students will be selected for the academy. Over two years, they will earn a certificate in public service, participate in internships and engage in leadership challenges. The annual Mike Huether Public Service Academy Conference will further enhance their experience.

Christine Garst-Santos, director of the School of American and Global Studies, emphasized the academy’s potential to shape the next generation of leaders. “This program embodies our commitment to solving society’s greatest challenges,” she said.

David Knudson, speaking on behalf of Sanford, underscored the importance of philanthropy in supporting the academy. “Denny is pleased to be part of a program that helps students develop their public service skills,” Knudson said.

The academy is expected to transform participating ������Ƶ students into thought leaders who will shape public policy and strengthen democracy through active citizenship, leadership and service.

South Dakota State University expanded its presence in Sioux Falls when it established the ������Ƶ Metro Center, thanks to a generous property donation from Avera. Located near downtown, the 44,359-square-foot building will serve as a permanent Sioux Falls home for ������Ƶ’s nursing and pharmacy programs. The building, which has previously housed Avera’s Home Medical Equipment, will undergo renovations, scheduled to be completed by the end of 2025.

The new ������Ƶ Metro Center will include classrooms, skills labs for nursing, research spaces for pharmacy, and simulation labs, bringing together students from various health disciplines. Over 400 students will be trained there annually, including 150 from the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions and 240 from the College of Nursing. This collaboration between ������Ƶ and Avera is crucial for addressing the growing demand for health care professionals in Sioux Falls and the region.

In 2023, ������Ƶ awarded 491 degrees in health professions, the highest number in the South Dakota Board of Regents system. President Barry Dunn emphasized the importance of the partnership with Avera, saying, “This facility will provide a Sioux Falls home for our pharmacy and nursing programs, expanding ������Ƶ’s connection to the state’s largest community and supporting workforce demands.”

David Flicek, chief operating officer for Avera, highlighted the significance of expanding the health care workforce, noting, “This collaboration will help expand capacity for ������Ƶ and support Avera, Sioux Falls and the state.” The new facility will enhance ������Ƶ's ability to meet the health care workforce needs of the region, allowing students to train in a community supported by the health care industry.

The Metro Center is part of a long-standing partnership between Avera and ������Ƶ. Avera previously funded the Avera Health and Science Center on ������Ƶ’s main campus and continues to support scholarships and student sponsorships in health care fields, including nursing and medical lab science.

Dan Hansen, dean of the College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions, and Mary Anne Krogh, dean of the College of Nursing, praised the partnership for fostering collaboration among health students and providing cutting-edge facilities to prepare them for the workforce.

School counselors are vital to student success, especially in rural areas, where they often serve multiple schools with limited resources for professional development. Among their many responsibilities, middle school counselors play a crucial role in career exploration and guidance.

Recognizing this, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture awarded a $500,000 grant to support a collaborative project led by South Dakota State University and West Virginia University. The project, titled Launch Fellowship: Empowering Rural School Counselors to Support the Agricultural Workforce, aims to enhance career development training and mentorship for middle school counselors, addressing the dual challenges of preparing students for future careers and addressing workforce shortages in the agricultural sector.

"Without a new generation of employees prepared to take over, rural communities may face economic declines and a decreased quality of life," said Amber Letcher, professor in ������Ƶ’s School of Education, Counseling and Human Development and director of the project. "Many middle school counselors lack formal training in career development, particularly in emerging agricultural careers."

The Launch Fellowship offers selected counselors a six-month mentorship program paired with online training in career theory and pedagogy, culminating in a weeklong immersion experience. During this immersive week, counselors will visit university labs and agricultural businesses, gaining firsthand knowledge of careers in food and agriculture.

By equipping counselors with these tools, the program enhances their ability to guide students toward careers in agriculture, promoting agricultural literacy and ensuring the sustainability of rural communities.

Letcher, who also leads Strengthening the Heartland, a rural wellness initiative, emphasized the program’s broader impact: "Improving agricultural literacy among school counselors promotes a new generation of professionals and will contribute to a healthy agricultural workforce."

This transformative initiative exemplifies ������Ƶ's commitment to addressing workforce needs while empowering education professionals to support vibrant rural economies.

Laura Diddle, the Paul E. and Doris J. Moriarty Endowed Professor of Choral Activities at South Dakota State University, was honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award by the South Dakota American Choral Directors Association. This prestigious award recognizes her exceptional contributions as a choral artist, educator and advocate in the state.

Diddle expressed her gratitude for the recognition, thanking her family, colleagues and students for their support over her 20-year career in South Dakota. “I could never have achieved this prestigious award without their trust in my abilities,” she said. Reflecting on her teaching philosophy, Diddle added, “We stand on the shoulders of giants who came before us, and it’s our responsibility to continue achieving excellence in their name.”

In addition to this honor, Diddle served as president of the South Dakota American Choral Directors Association from 2005 to 2008. She continues to inspire the next generation of choral professionals, including recent ������Ƶ graduates who are also making their mark.

Shawn Stemsrud, a 2022 ������Ƶ graduate, received the Encore Award, which recognizes choral professionals early in their careers. Now a choral director at Brookings High School in South Dakota, Stemsrud was also honored with the National American Choral Directors Association Choral Conducting Award while at ������Ƶ.

Another ������Ƶ alum, Janice Gilbert, who graduated in 2002, also received the Encore Award this year for her achievements as the choir director at Tea (South Dakota) Area High School.

Diddle, who previously received the Encore Award herself, noted that her most meaningful recognition was being named the first endowed professor in the School of Performing Arts in 2022. “I am truly grateful for the way I have been welcomed and honored in South Dakota,” she said.

Nearly 70 Sioux Falls high school teachers visited South Dakota State University in February 2024 for a day of learning and exploration. The event, held during the Sioux Falls School District’s in-service day, aimed to connect educators with the academic resources available at ������Ƶ. Teachers engaged in activities like science experiments and compounding prescriptions while learning about the diverse educational opportunities ������Ƶ offers.

The event allowed teachers to explore campus resources and connect with faculty from various fields, including engineering, family and consumer sciences, agriculture, physics and health care. The connections will help teachers advise their students on potential career paths and postsecondary education options.

Josh Hall, principal of the Career and Technical Academy in Sioux Falls, emphasized the importance of teachers knowing what opportunities await students after high school, saying that it directly impacts student career planning.

������Ƶ President Barry Dunn highlighted the event's significance, noting that it aligns with the university’s land-grant mission to provide access to higher education not only to future students but also to the educators shaping tomorrow’s workforce.

The event was inspired by a previous visit from Sioux Falls Superintendent Jane Stavem and ������Ƶ’s participation in a NASA competition, leading to a partnership between the Sioux Falls School District and ������Ƶ to showcase the university’s offerings.

Vernon Brown, ������Ƶ’s associate vice president for external affairs, explained that the goal was to promote the value and affordability of higher education, rather than solely recruiting for ������Ƶ. Teachers also learned about student support services available at ������Ƶ, such as the Wintrode Student Success and Opportunity Center, Multicultural Affairs and the Wokini Initiative, all of which ensure student success.

For the second consecutive year, South Dakota State University has broken its research expenditure record, reaching $84 million for fiscal year 2024 — a 13.5% increase from the previous year’s $74 million. The growth highlights ������Ƶ’s expanding research efforts, driven by faculty, staff and students committed to discovery and innovation.

“������Ƶ faculty, staff and students continue driving the leading edge of discovery and innovation — to the public's great benefit,” said Daniel Scholl, vice president for research and economic development. Research funding comes from various sources, including federal, state, industry and internal grants, which are competitively awarded based on the quality and impact of the projects.

In addition to record-breaking expenditures, research proposals for fiscal year 2024 totaled $270 million, up from $155 million the previous year. Scholl noted that this growth signals a trusted and capable research profile at ������Ƶ.

The university is currently classified as "R2" by the Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education but is pursuing "R1" status — the highest classification — which requires at least $50 million in research expenditures annually. “������Ƶ’s growing impact is what you would expect from an aspiring Carnegie R1 university,” Scholl added.

Among notable research projects, professor Lora Perkins led a National Park Service-backed project on restoring native plants in the Northern Great Plains. Professor Moul Dey conducted a National Pork Board study on the role of lean pork in a plant-based diet, aimed at improving health markers in older adults. Tim Hansen, from the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering, is developing more resilient electrical grids for rural communities, supported by the National Science Foundation.

In the health sciences, professor Natalie Thiex secured National Institutes of Health funding for a study on inflammation. Other notable projects include Josh Reineke’s development of nanoparticle therapies for tuberculosis and Andrea Leschewski’s cost-benefit analysis of nutrition education programs.

South Dakota State University is playing a pivotal role in advancing medical research that could benefit athletes and others suffering from knee injuries.

Before the 2024 NFL season began, the Minnesota Vikings’ top draft pick, J.J. McCarthy, tore his meniscus, an injury common in contact sports. McCarthy’s case highlights a broader issue: over 1 million people suffer meniscus tears annually, and many cases require surgery. However, traditional surgical interventions don’t always guarantee long-term recovery. This can result in worsened conditions, including osteoarthritis.

At ������Ƶ, assistant professor Solaiman Tarafder from the Department of Mechanical Engineering is working on an innovative solution that could significantly improve the healing process for meniscus injuries. With a $200,000 National Science Foundation grant, Tarafder is developing a hydrogel bioadhesive inspired by the natural adhesive proteins found in marine mussels. This biodegradable adhesive incorporates hydrophilic polydopamine, a material that boasts strong adhesion in wet environments, making it ideal for medical applications like tissue repair.

Unlike conventional polydopamine, which is not water-soluble, Tarafder’s hydrophilic version enables more efficient bonding and faster tissue regeneration. By combining this material with other natural polymers, such as collagen and hyaluronic acid, the bioadhesive promotes cellular responses critical for healing, like stem cell recruitment and differentiation. This research is not only groundbreaking for meniscus repair but could also extend to other musculoskeletal tissues such as cartilage and tendons.

As part of the research, Tarafder will test the biomechanical and regenerative properties of this bioadhesive in a lab setting. He hopes that by facilitating better mechanical integration, the adhesive will improve stability and speed up the recovery process for athletes and others. If successful, this innovation could revolutionize treatment options, providing more effective solutions to common injuries while reducing the risk of long-term complications. ������Ƶ is proud to be at the forefront of such impactful research that stands to benefit both the field of sports medicine and broader health outcomes.

South Dakota State University has been awarded a $7 million, four-year grant from the National Science Foundation to lead a groundbreaking statewide research initiative. The project will focus on biological nitrogen fixation, a natural process that converts atmospheric nitrogen into a usable form for plants, and its applications in sustainable agriculture and industry. This project, titled the BioNitrogen Economy Research Center, will involve collaboration between ������Ƶ, Oglala Lakota College, South Dakota Mines, the University of South Dakota and the Brookings-based fermentation company Houdek.

Ruanbao Zhou, a professor in ������Ƶ's Department of Biology and Microbiology, will lead the initiative. Zhou expressed his honor in heading a project that blends cutting-edge science with traditional Native knowledge, emphasizing its collaborative and community-driven nature. The project aims to tackle the environmental and agricultural challenges associated with nitrogen use by finding sustainable alternatives to fossil-fuel-derived nitrogen, which is essential for crop production but often harmful to the environment.

Biological nitrogen fixation, though difficult to achieve artificially, holds great promise for promoting sustainable plant growth. By establishing the BioNitrogen Economy Research Center, researchers aim to harness the power of solar-powered cyanobacteria — microorganisms capable of photosynthesis — to create nitrogen-rich biological products like fertilizers, biofuels and bioplastics. The project will also tap into the expertise of Native communities to explore agricultural and medicinal plants.

Key research areas include studying nitrogen-fixing bacteria in natural ecosystems, using machine learning to understand the biological mechanisms, and genetically engineering nitrogen-fixing crops. The project will also focus on workforce development, integrating K-12 outreach and tribal community engagement.

Daniel Scholl, ������Ƶ’s vice president for research, highlighted the project's potential to benefit South Dakota’s economy through innovation in sustainable agriculture. Collaboration among institutions is key, with researchers like Rajesh Sani from South Dakota Mines and Etienne Gnimpieba Zohim from the University of South Dakota contributing expertise in biotechnology and bioinformatics. The project promises to significantly advance both agricultural practices and environmental sustainability while fostering a stronger STEM identity in the region.

Bananas, one of the world’s most widely consumed fruits, may hold the key to addressing the plastic waste crisis, according to research led by Srinivas Janaswamy, associate professor of food chemistry at South Dakota State University. Janaswamy is exploring how banana peels and other agricultural byproducts can be used to create biodegradable films — sustainable alternatives to traditional plastic packaging.

Petroleum-based plastics, commonly used in packaging, take decades to decompose, with many ending up in landfills or polluting the environment. In contrast, biodegradable films made from natural materials like banana peels could break down more quickly, offering an environmentally friendly solution. "Banana peels stand out as a promising and inexpensive material," Janaswamy said.

Banana plantations worldwide generate massive amounts of byproducts, producing around 220 tons of residue per 2.5 acres. This residue, primarily composed of lignocellulosic material, is ideal for creating biodegradable films due to its robust structure, low density and biodegradability. Each year, about 36 million tons of banana peels are discarded, with most going to waste. Janaswamy’s research aims to repurpose this byproduct, reducing environmental pollution and providing financial benefits to the agricultural industry.

In a recent study, Janaswamy and his team demonstrated how banana peels could be processed into strong, transparent, biodegradable films. Using a chemical treatment process, they extracted lignocellulosic fibers from the peels, bleached and distilled them, and formed them into a film. This film biodegrades within 30 days, making it a viable alternative to conventional plastics.

“The films are strong and transparent, and more importantly, biodegrade within 30 days at 21% soil moisture content,” Janaswamy explained. The tensile strength of these films is higher than that of typical grocery bags, making them suitable for packaging applications.

Janaswamy’s work contributes to the circular bioeconomy, utilizing green, recyclable chemicals to produce sustainable packaging solutions. Ongoing research will focus on improving the film’s flexibility and scaling up the production process for commercial use. The study, published in the journal Sustainable Chemistry and Pharmacy, was funded by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.

In 2020, the city of Waubay faced a crisis. Homes were submerged, and the city’s sewer system collapsed after extreme snowmelt and heavy rains caused Bitter Lake to expand from 5 to 32 square miles. Many residents had to abandon their homes, and the city turned to a $1.6 million Federal Emergency Management Agency grant to buy back uninhabitable properties and relocate homeowners.

However, Waubay officials were unsure how to utilize the vacated land. During a water planning conference at South Dakota State University, Waubay’s community planner, Roger Johanning, heard Jeremiah Bergstrom, a lecturer in landscape architecture, speak about flood-resilient landscapes. Bergstrom, who had previously worked on flood recovery efforts after Hurricane Sandy, was invited to help Waubay develop solutions for its flood-impacted areas.

Bergstrom and his upper-level design students at ������Ƶ’s School of Design collaborated with the community to envision new uses for the vacant lots. Although the pandemic prevented in-person visits, the students worked with Waubay to propose ideas such as wetland nature centers, community gardens, trails and a public boat launch, emphasizing flood-resilient and ecologically focused landscapes. These concepts were compiled into a visioning document for the city.

"The goal was to provide Waubay with unique strategies to reimagine open spaces and invest in new community assets," Bergstrom explained. His approach combined engineering, ecology and landscape architecture to restore ecological functions to flood-prone areas.

Waubay’s challenges mirror those of many communities nationwide. Flooding has led to frequent FEMA buyouts of damaged properties, but there is often little guidance on what to do with the land afterward. Bergstrom saw an opportunity to apply his experience from Waubay to other communities across the U.S. By working with colleagues at Rutgers University and ������Ƶ, he helped create a first-of-its-kind guide, “Creating Flood-Resilient Landscapes,” to assist municipal leaders and stakeholders in restoring ecological functions to flood-affected areas.

Bergstrom’s guide offers principles that can be applied nationwide, helping communities transform flood-prone landscapes into green infrastructure assets that enhance resilience and provide valuable recreational spaces.

The South Dakota State University Foundation and ������Ƶ proudly exceeded the Bold & Blue campaign goal, raising $604.3 million from nearly 31,000 donors, surpassing the initial $500 million target set in 2017.

This record-breaking campaign, the third in ������Ƶ’s history, reached its goal in September 2023 and continued to gain momentum, raising an additional $100 million in the last seven months, with $43.8 million contributed in the final 22 days.

Designed around people-centered initiatives, Bold & Blue focused especially on scholarships and endowments. Scholarships accounted for one-third of the funds raised, doubling the scholarship offerings available since the campaign’s launch. Endowments, which sustain university growth with annual distributions, were another key area, comprising 54% of the total funds raised. As a result, ������Ƶ increased endowed positions from 13 to 58, including new roles for deans, directors and chairs. This growth inspired the annual University Leadership Honors ceremony, established to honor donors and endowed position holders.

The Bold & Blue campaign also met critical campus needs with significant capital projects, including the American Indian Student Center and the Raven Precision Agriculture Center. The largest undertaking was the renovation of Frost Arena, renamed First Bank & Trust Arena after a lead gift of $20 million.

Support for Bold & Blue came from a diverse donor base, including 114 individuals committing $1 million or more and over 17,500 making their first-ever gift to ������Ƶ. Contributions ranged from $5 million gifts to those under $100, collectively illustrating a strong community spirit. On average, the campaign raised $226,346 per day over its 2,670-day duration, achieving 21% over the initial goal.

In co-chair Dana Dykhouse’s words, “In every campaign, we’ve exceeded expectations, because that’s what Jackrabbits do.” Bold & Blue stands as a monumental success for ������Ƶ and the Dakotas, affirming the impact of ������Ƶ’s greatest asset — its people.

For the fall 2024 semester, South Dakota State University’s enrollment reached 12,065 students, marking the highest enrollment since 2018.

The incoming first-year class of 2,449 students is the largest in ������Ƶ’s history, surpassing the previous record set in 2013 by 7.6%. Retention also set a new high, with 83.8% of first-year students returning for their second year.

Overall enrollment rose by 4.9%, adding 560 students from the previous year. “These enrollment milestones affirm ������Ƶ’s standing as a top choice for students,” President Barry Dunn said. “We continue to expand strategically, aligning with our land-grant mission and meeting the workforce needs of South Dakota.”

Growth in first-year students from South Dakota is noteworthy, with a 7.4% increase, particularly from the Sioux Falls metro area, which saw a 10% rise to nearly 400 students. According to the South Dakota Board of Regents, more than 44% of first-year students from South Dakota enrolled in the state’s public higher education system are attending ������Ƶ.

������Ƶ’s goal of attaining R1 Research University status has already spurred growth, with a 13.1% increase in Ph.D. candidates, bringing the total to 268. “Our ‘R1 Our Way’ initiative is guiding us toward achieving R1 designation, attracting distinguished students and scholars who enrich ������Ƶ’s research environment,” Dunn said.

International enrollment saw significant growth as well, with a 17.7% increase, bringing the total to 826 students. International undergraduates increased by 30.3%, and graduate enrollment rose by 7.8%. ������Ƶ students now represent 77 countries and 47 states, with total credit hours increasing to 142,812.

“These students will be the leaders and innovators of tomorrow,” Dunn said. “We are honored to welcome them from across the state, region and globe, supporting them during this transformative time.”

South Dakota State University’s men’s and women’s basketball, volleyball and wrestling programs debuted in the newly renovated First Bank & Trust Arena, a modernized successor to the beloved Frost Arena, in fall 2024. The upgrades bring state-of-the-art amenities while preserving the magic and traditions of Frost, a space cherished by fans since its opening in 1973.

The facility will serve as an important hub of campus activities for intercollegiate athletics, commencement ceremonies and potentially a home for concerts, lectures and other campus-related events.

The transformation was made possible by unprecedented generosity from ������Ƶ’s supporters. A $20 million gift from First Bank & Trust, the largest in university history, initiated the $66.4 million project. Other significant contributions included $10 million from an anonymous donor, $2.6 million from eight families and additional support from partners such as Hefty Seed, Furniture Mart, Dakota Layers and Midco.

Fifty years ago, ������Ƶ transitioned from the aging “Barn” gymnasium to Frost Arena, a 9,000-seat facility that became a hub of athletic and community pride. Fans then, as now, wondered if the energy and charm of their old venue could carry over. The answer this fall was clear: First Bank & Trust Arena offers a seamless blend of history and modernity.

Entering through a striking new southeast entrance, fans discovered a redesigned seating bowl optimized for acoustics, sight lines and comfort. The arena now accommodates 5,000 spectators in chairback seats, including the student section, complete with its own club space, viewing deck and multilevel seating options for 1,000 students. 

Other enhancements include an enlarged concourse with additional concessions, restrooms and elevators, alongside premium seating options like 11 private suites, six loge boxes and multiple party decks. The game day experience is elevated with a cutting-edge video board, ribbon displays and enhanced sound systems.

In 2024, South Dakota State University celebrated a historic milestone with the establishment of its first endowed and named department, the McComish Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science.

The transformative $5 million gift was generously given by alumni Richard “Dick” and Karen McComish, both members of the class of 1975. Their endowment is a profound testament to the power of alumni giving and represents an exceptional and lasting commitment to the university’s future.

The McComishes’ relationship with ������Ƶ spans over three decades, during which they have consistently championed philanthropic initiatives across campus. This latest contribution is deeply personal: it honors the education that enabled their remarkable careers. Dick’s electrical engineering degree and Karen’s degree in sociology laid the groundwork for their success in the energy industry, culminating in the founding of Electrical Consultants Inc. Starting with just a single office in Billings, Montana, the couple built the company into a national powerhouse, employing over 950 engineers, surveyors and technical staff. Their achievements reflect not only hard work and dedication but also the strong educational foundation they received at ������Ƶ.

Reflecting on his time at ������Ƶ, Dick said, “The Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science provided me a top-tier technical education that established direction for professional growth. However, this instruction provided much more. The environment at ������Ƶ opened my mind to the needs and challenges in the engineering profession, to accept nothing less than the best solutions, and to strive for innovation.” The McComishes hope their endowment will bolster recruitment and retention in the department, helping address the industrywide need for talented engineering graduates.

“Engineering today is technically complex, demanding and extremely innovative, offering new engineers lifelong opportunities for growth and satisfaction in helping society,” Dick explained. “Higher education must provide us the best and brightest candidates to ensure future generations can expect opportunities as outstanding as those we have been fortunate to receive.”

Endowed funding is perpetual, meaning the McComishes’ gift will continue to support ������Ƶ students and faculty for generations. Sanjeev Kumar, dean of the Jerome J. Lohr College of Engineering, emphasized its significance, saying, “The McComishes’ generosity will have an everlasting positive impact on the quality of education our students receive and on the growth of the department. This endowment allows our department to venture into uncharted waters and invest in high-reward initiatives.”

Provost Dennis Hedge captured the importance of this legacy: “Endowments are a tremendous legacy. ... Not only do they impact our academic and research work today, endowments live on into the future. Is there anything more powerful than something that will live on throughout time?”

Broad-based success has defined Jackrabbits Athletics during the past decade. Since the start of the 2014-15 academic year, South Dakota State teams have claimed 62 conference titles — regular season or postseason — in nine different sports. In addition, ������Ƶ has won six Summit League Commissioner’s Cup titles, seven Dr. William Steinbrecher Men’s All-Sports Awards and two Dr. Helen Smiley Women’s All-Sports Awards.

Jackrabbits teams also qualified for NCAA Tournament events 35 times, with several squads earning berths in other Division I postseason tournaments. The Jackrabbits football team made the Football Championship Subdivision playoff field for the 13th year in a row during the 2024 season.

Individually, Jackrabbits student-athletes have not only excelled in competition, but also in the classroom. These student-athletes combined for nearly 500 all-conference honors over the past 10 years, including 64 All-Americans. In addition, Jackrabbits student-athletes accumulated approximately 2,500 academic all-conference awards, with 38 earning the distinction of Academic All-American. Student-athletes finished the 2023-24 academic year with a cumulative GPA of 3.406.

1. The Jackrabbits football team finished the 2024 season with a 12-3 overall record, earning a trip to the semifinals of the NCAA Division I FCS playoffs. It was the seventh time in eight seasons the Jackrabbits at least reached the semifinals. The program earned back-to-back national championships in 2022 and 2023.
2. The Jackrabbits volleyball team earned its first trip to the NCAA tournament since 2007, finishing the year with a 27-3 record and the Summit League regular-season championship. Head Coach Dan Georgalas earned Northwest Region Coach of the Year by the American Volleyball Coaches Association while Sydni Schetnan and Sylvie Zgonc became the first ������Ƶ players to be named to the AVCA All-Region team in ������Ƶ’s Division I era.
3. The ������Ƶ men’s basketball team claimed its eighth Summit League title in a 10-year span, winning the regular season and conference tournament titles during the 2023-24 season.
4. The women’s basketball team posted its second consecutive undefeated season in Summit League play, which raised its league winning streak to 47 games. The Jacks competed in the NCAA tournament for the 12th time in 14 seasons.
5. The Jackrabbits men’s cross-country team captured it ninth consecutive Summit League conference title in 2024 with Carson Noecker leading the way with a second-place conference finish and a top 50 placing at the NCAA Championships.
6. The ������Ƶ women’s cross-country team won its third conference championship in five years and was paced by freshman Courtney Stadter’s third-place finish. The women’s team finished 12th at the NCAA region meet.
7. The ������Ƶ softball team earned its fourth consecutive Summit League regular-season championship in 2024, posting a 14-2 conference record. Eight members of the team were recognized on the all-conference team with Mia Jarecki being named Summit League Player of the Year.