A Decade of Dominance
For most people, 2015 feels like a lifetime ago. For Rod DeHaven '89, South Dakota State University's Brent Bargmann Director of Track and Field and Cross Country, 2015 is a painful reminder of his team's last loss.
State Magazine
STATE Magazine highlights the spirit, loyalty, and achievements that define SDSU — featuring the people and stories that continue to inspire Jackrabbits across generations.
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Current Issue: Winter 2026 - Vol. 115
In this celebratory first issue from the unified SDSU Alumni & Foundation, meet the newest Distinguished Alumni, see how mentorship comes full circle, and explore the latest stories from campus.
Explore StoriesA Message from Andi Fouberg & Steve Erpenbach
Read HereBarry H. DunnPresident's Message
For the past several weeks, I have spent many days in Pierre, walking the halls of our state Capitol, meeting with legislators, testifying before committees and answering questions on behalf of South Dakota State University. While much of the work involves policy, funding and planning, I am reminded each time I step into those chambers that I carry with me more than reports and statistics — I carry the stories of our students, faculty, staff, alumni and the citizens we serve.
It is no small responsibility to speak on behalf of the state’s first land-grant university that holds such a special place in the hearts of South Dakotans. But it is also one of the greatest honors of my presidency. When I meet with lawmakers, I am able to share not only why SDSU matters — but how SDSU changes lives, strengthens communities and drives South Dakota’s future. Our elected leaders want to understand that impact, and it is meaningful to know they listen, ask hard questions and care about the university that belongs to the people of this state. I am grateful for their interest and engagement to learn and understand the value of higher education.
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about Together as One: the SDSU Alumni & Foundation
Together as One: the SDSU Alumni & Foundation
The South Dakota State University Alumni Association and SDSU Foundation have been the university’s two largest relationship-building partners for decades.
Grand Opening Celebrates Expansion, Renovation of BHSU-Rapid City Nursing Facility
South Dakota State University, Black Hills State University and Monument Health celebrated the grand opening of the newly renovated and expanded nursing facility at BHSU-Rapid City.
Elizabeth Fox Named 2025 South Dakota Librarian of the Year
Elizabeth Fox '97, government documents librarian at South Dakota State University's Hilton M. Briggs Library, has been named the 2025 South Dakota Librarian of the Year by the South Dakota Library Association.
Finance, Social Science Programs Launching in Fall 2026
South Dakota State University officials are preparing to launch two new academic offerings next fall: a bachelor’s program in finance and an interdisciplinary Ph.D. program in social science.
SDSU Junior Wins First Place at National Singing Competition
South Dakota State University junior Steiger Manson earned national recognition for his vocal talent, winning first place last summer in the freshman/sophomore tenor, baritone, bass category at the National Association of Teachers of Singing National Student Auditions.
Legends & Leaders Distinguished Alumni Awards Banquet
Three women in wide-ranging leadership positions and three men with extensive legal careers comprise the six graduates who have risen to the top of their fields and were selected for the 2025 Class of Distinguished Alumni by the South Dakota State University Alumni Association (now known as the SDSU Alumni & Foundation).
Together as One: the SDSU Alumni & Foundation
The South Dakota State University Alumni Association and SDSU Foundation have been the university’s two largest relationship-building partners for decades.
New Donation to SDSU Archives Explores Unique Part of State’s Agricultural History
South Dakota State University Archives and Special Collections has some brand-new additions to its collection: More than 70 South Dakota brand books and other items from the history of branding in the state.
Researchers Investigating Mule and Whitetailed Deer Populations in South Dakota
A new study from South Dakota State University is working to better understand juvenile survival rates for mule and white-tailed deer in the western half of the state.
Capt. Willibald ‘Bill’ Bianchi
More than 80 years after his death in World War II, the remains of South Dakota State alumnus and Medal of Honor recipient Capt. Willibald “Bill” Bianchi ’40 were finally identified, bringing long-awaited closure and honoring his extraordinary sacrifice and legacy.
Filholm List Gives Recipients a Look at SDSU Campus Transformation
Tony Filholm has certainly seen his share of changes on the South Dakota State University campus over his nearly 40 years as a dedicated Facilities and Services employee.
Fitch, a former mentee, steps up to mentor future nurses
As a member of the first Alumni Mentor Program cohort, Madison Fitch ’23 is now giving back as the program’s first former mentee to become a mentor herself.
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Learn MoreSTATE Magazine is published three times a year—winter, summer, and fall. Stories from past issues will be added later this year, so you can explore even more Jackrabbit news and features.