SDSU Claims NASA Blue Skies Victory
SDSU engineering students turned an ambitious idea into an award-winning agricultural innovation — one that captured NASA’s attention and could soon reshape the future of farming.
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.
Scroll
Current Issue: Fall 2025 - Vol. 114
This issue highlights 60 years of McCrory Gardens, a 1993 graduate who has become a bear expert, the impact of Edgar McFadden, and more.
Explore StoriesA Message from Andi Fouberg
Read HereBarry H. DunnPresident's Message
Across the country, universities have been preparing for what many in higher education have called the "2025 enrollment cliff." For years, demographic trends pointed to a sharp decline in the number of high school graduates beginning this fall. Many institutions anticipated significant enrollment losses, followed by reductions in budgets, staffing, and academic offerings. Sadly, those predictions have come true for some campuses.
At South Dakota State University, however, we chose a different path. We recognized the challenge years ago and worked tirelessly to position ourselves not only to withstand the decline but to thrive in the face of it. Today, I am proud to say that our preparation, commitment, and belief in the power of our land-grant mission have placed SDSU in a position of strength.
Continue Reading
Featured Story
Read Story
about McCrory Gardens Celebrates 60 Years
McCrory Gardens Celebrates 60 Years
In 1937, Sam McCrory and his wife arrived in Brookings and planted a seed. Today, his idea has come into bloom and continues to flourish as McCrory Gardens celebrates its 60th anniversary.
SDSU's Research Expenditures Surpass $94 Million
For the third year in a row, SDSU broke its research expenditures record, surpassing $94 million in fiscal year 2025.
Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Celebrating 100 Years
SDSU's Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering Department celebrates 100 years of advancing agricultural innovation and training future engineers.
SDSU’s Ph.D. in Nursing Turns 20
South Dakota State University celebrates 20 years of its Ph.D. in Nursing, the state’s only research-focused doctoral program for nurses.
The Grizzly Guy
What began as an unexpected graduate research assignment led South Dakota State University alumnus Grant Hilderbrand to a 30-year career studying Alaska’s brown bears and the vast landscapes they inhabit.
Cattlemen Supporting State's Beef Industry
With deep SDSU roots and a commitment to innovation, the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation is shaping the future of South Dakota’s beef industry and the communities it nourishes.
McCrory Gardens Celebrates 60 Years
In 1937, Sam McCrory and his wife arrived in Brookings and planted a seed. Today, his idea has come into bloom and continues to flourish as McCrory Gardens celebrates its 60th anniversary.
Prairie Repertory Theatre Partners with SD Shakespeare Festival for Sylvan Theatre Performance
Prairie Repertory Theatre presented an outdoor show this summer for the first time since the ’70s, bringing in a seasoned partner to help pull it off.
Woodbine Productions: Scholarships Take Center Stage
Woodbine Productions turns world-class performances into life-changing scholarship support, creating a program that inspires students, fuels music education, and opens doors for generations of Jackrabbits.
Educating Future Teachers on Oceti Sakowin History and Culture
Through a growing partnership with Norris Elementary on the Rosebud Reservation, SDSU future educators are gaining life-changing experience in culturally responsive teaching.
McFadden
Edgar McFadden devoted his life to creating a rust-resistant wheat variety — an innovation that would transform global agriculture and help feed the world.
Nontraditional Morans Multiply Jackrabbit Pride
For the Moran family, returning to school at SDSU became a multigenerational tradition and a reminder that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
Explore More
Stay ConnectedKeep Your Classmates Informed
Share the important things happening in your life with the greater SDSU community and explore ways to engage with fellow Jacks.
Submit a Class Note
Celebrate milestones, new adventures, and moments that matter with fellow Jackrabbits by submitting a class note.
Learn MoreShare a Story
We're always looking for the next big story — whether that's an alum doing great things, a special moment in SDSU history, or a student making an impact. Tell us your ideas!
Learn MoreUpdate Your Information
Make sure your mailing and contact information is updated and accurate so you can receive alumni communication and news from STATE Magazine publications.
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.