A Message from Steve Erpenbach | Fall 2026

There’s no shortage of evidence on the ways this university impacts lives. We’re witness to it every day.

A small sample find their way into this publication. Many more are shared through social media, podcasts and other forms of communication. There are simply more stories than we can share.

This issue offers prime examples of how lives are transformed.

South Dakota State University is where Adam Vinatieri’s journey to the Pro Football Hall of Fame as the greatest place kicker in NFL history began. The story on 1981 alum Lisa Jensen is a powerful testimony on what inspires people to give back in a remarkably generous and personal way.

Each October, thousands of alumni make the trek back to Brookings for Hobo Day. They reconnect with the people and places that defined their SDSU experience and reflect on the journeys both in and out of the classrooms that propelled them to their careers.

It’s where lifelong friendships and marriages begin. My wife, Michelle, and I celebrated our 40th anniversary this summer. Were it not for our common degree (journalism) and long days and late nights working at The Collegian in the lower level of the University Student Union, my life would have turned out much differently.

Everyone has their unique story about how SDSU has and continues to impact their life.

There is an aura about this place.

The impact is the result of innovation, bold ideas, connectivity and exceptional philanthropy. Perhaps nothing better combines those four things than the idea of a 24-hour day of giving that started 10 years ago, evolving into an annual phenomenon that unites thousands of people throughout the world and attracts gifts that touch every facet of this university.

The emotional draw to South Dakota State University is real. In this publication, you can read it. When you’re on campus, you can feel it. You can see it. Hope to see you soon.

With loyal hearts so true,

Steve Erpenbach '85
SDSU Alumni & Foundation Chief Executive Officer