Monday Message, April 7
SDSU Community,
Welcome back for this Tuesday edition of the Monday Message. I hope everyone had a wonderful Easter break. As we return to campus and continue through the spring semester, I want to thank each of you for the energy and commitment you bring to South Dakota State University every day. With the semester moving quickly, your work continues to make a meaningful difference for our students and our campus community. It is hard to believe we are about a month from commencement ceremonies.
I would like to share an important update regarding campus safety and our continued efforts to strengthen operations across the university. SDSU has partnered with to conduct a comprehensive, data-informed review of our public safety operations. In addition, Meliora PSC will assist with executive search services as we identify the next SDSU chief of police.
Meliora PSC is a nationally recognized firm comprised of experienced public safety professionals who focus on continuous improvement and the implementation of contemporary best practices. This review will provide valuable insight into our current operations and help guide future enhancements that support the safety and well-being of our campus.
As part of this process, representatives from Meliora PSC will be on campus Thursday, April 9, to gather feedback from students, employees and community stakeholders. This input is essential, as it will help inform both the review and the selection of our next chief of police. Employees are invited to participate in a focus group from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in Dakota 250 A and C, University Student Union. I encourage you to attend if you are able, as your perspective is important to this effort.
I also want to remind you that tonight we will host the Daschle Dialogues at First Bank & Trust Arena, featuring Pulitzer Prize-winning author and presidential historian Jon Meacham.
Meacham is widely regarded as one of America’s leading public intellectuals, with a body of work that explores the lives of key American leaders and the broader story of our nation. His insights offer a timely opportunity for reflection and discussion as part of SDSU’s America 250 celebration. Prior to his talk, Meacham will be on campus spending time with students and faculty. It should be an interesting and informative talk this evening.
Thank you for your continued dedication to SDSU and for helping us promote excellence, integrity and community across campus. I wish you a productive and successful week ahead.
Sincerely,
Barry H. Dunn
President
South Dakota State University
Above and Beyond recognizes individuals and groups of South Dakota State University employees, faculty and students for individual and team efforts that go Above and Beyond to make the campus community a better place.
In the waning days of March, more than 150 students came together to pull off the largest two-day, student-run agricultural exposition in the country — the 103rd Little International.
Held from March 27-28, Little I gave high school and college students hands-on, real-world experience in all aspects of livestock exhibition. It also provided these students a perfect window into the wide variety of agricultural professions available to the next generation of farmers, ranchers and producers.
Little I had 200 showmen and expediters. It also brought approximately 1,600 high school students to campus that Friday for practice contests run by student staff.
So, today, we’re recognizing the many hands that it took to set up the judging contests, showmanship competitions, fitting challenges, product creation and sales that took place over the multiday event.
It included every four-legged critter you can find on an agriculture operation, including sheep, goats, horses and pigs.
A student staff of 157 members worked on Little I this year. For many team members, the work has stretched all year-round, meaning they’ve been working on the 103rd Little I since the 102nd Little I.
That work ramped up in the weeks and days leading up to the event. A week before, student staff were charged with preparing the arena, from setting up the famous red barn and white fencing decorations to erecting the bleachers. All the wood chips in the show ring of the Animal Science Arena were dyed a bright green.
Various committees tended to their specific tasks to ensure their part of Little I went successfully. They were overseen by the executive committee, which included:
- Cassidy Strommen, manager
- Brandon Gengler, assistant manager
- Abby Morse, secretary
- Olivia Hadrick, assistant secretary
- Tanner Mathiowetz, treasurer
- Logan Guilette, assistant treasurer
- Lindsey Schmoll, livestock coordinator
- Raesa Zelinsky, livestock assistant
- Cayleigh Reed, judging coordinator
- Mason Grams, judging assistant
- Marcus Gibbs, equipment coordinator
- Carson Loutsch, equipment assistant
- Mallory Drake, communications coordinator
- Cally Faulhaber, communications assistant
- Beth Holst, at-large – team fitting
- Tyler Andersen, at-large – entertainment
- Wyatt Glessing, at-large – auction
Among the student staff, one was selected for the Pete Pritchett award, which recognizes the hardest-working team member. This year, that award went to Carter Sanny, a beef superintendent.
While the barn and white fence have been taken down for the year, the impacts of the event will be felt in the fields and pastures of the future.
There’s no doubt in my mind that these students sparked an interest in a future agriculturalist. Someone who attended Little I found their calling or a new interest in agriculture.
Please join me in recognizing all the SDSU students who helped make this Little I a success, all while making a big investment in the future of farming here and beyond.
The Monday Message appears weekly during the academic year and less frequently during the summer months and holiday breaks.
Information for the Monday Message, including nominations for Above and Beyond, can be submitted online.
Jacks Stand Together
As the spring semester enters a busy and demanding stretch, the Division of Student Affairs and Enrollment Management, in partnership with campus and community organizations, continues to offer programs that reflect SDSU’s commitment to safety, respect and community.
These efforts emphasize that Jacks Stand Together — to see, learn from and support one another — while fostering meaningful connections across campus.
This week’s events include:
- Listening Lunch – Friday, April 10, noon-1 p.m., vlog Room, University Student Union
- Student Belonging Poster Contest – Open through April 23 (For more information, contact Carolyn Killefer.)
All are welcome to participate. These programs are designed to create space for dialogue, build understanding and strengthen the SDSU community during a critical time in the semester.
Additional events and updates will continue to be shared through campus communications, including the Monday Message.
Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community
Nominations are now being accepted for the 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community Awards, a long-standing program established in 1927. The awards recognize individuals who have demonstrated a lifetime of leadership and service benefiting the agriculture industry, families and communities across South Dakota.
The awards are presented jointly by the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and the College of Education and Human Sciences.
Nomination forms and instructions are available online. To request a printed copy, please contact Angela Loftesness at 605-688-6732 or Angela Loftesness.
Nominations are due May 1.
250-plus Years of American Civics and News
Join a community gathering exploring more than . As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, this interactive presentation will examine how civics and communication organizations — from Revolutionary War-era publications to modern-day media and podcasts — have shaped the nation’s history.
The event will be held April 14 from 6-7 p.m. in Woster Celebration Hall at the SDSU Alumni & Foundation building (815 Medary Ave.).
Presenters include Jon Ruff, assistant professor of political science in SDSU’s School of American and Global Studies, and Carson Walker, CEO of South Dakota News Watch.
This event is part of a civics and news series launched in 2024 through a partnership between South Dakota News Watch and South Dakota Public Broadcasting, with additional support from the League of Women Voters of South Dakota, the Chiesman Center for Democracy at the University of South Dakota, and the Mike Huether Public Service Academy at SDSU.
All are welcome to attend.
Surplus Rummage Sale
Property Management, in partnership with the Wellness Center and Residence Life, will host a surplus rummage sale on April 17 from 1-5 p.m. in the Surplus Shed.
This is one of only two opportunities this year for individuals to purchase surplus items for personal use. A variety of items will be available, and the event is open to the public.
Don’t miss this chance to explore available surplus inventory. For more information, please contact Property Management.
Financial Literacy Month
In recognition of Financial Literacy Month, University Wellbeing will host a virtual panel titled “Level Up Your Money: College Finance” on Wednesday, April 15, from noon-1 p.m. .
he panel will feature SDSU experts:
- Kevin Fullerton, Career Services director
- Beth Vollan, Financial Aid director
- Bruce Johnson, business management instructor
Topics will include managing money while in college; understanding financial aid, loans and debt decisions; preparing for income and career transitions; building long-term financial confidence; and protecting yourself financially.
All are encouraged to attend and gain practical tools to support financial well-being.
South Dakota Art Museum: America in Art Exhibition Survey
The South Dakota Art Museum is preparing for its upcoming exhibition, “America in Art,” which will be on view June 13, 2026- Jan. 2, 2027. Commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States, the exhibition will explore the promise and paradox of the nation’s legacy, examining the ideals, struggles, freedoms and contradictions that define it.
To help guide the curatorial direction of the exhibition, the museum is seeking input from the campus and broader community. Feedback will help ensure the exhibition reflects a wide range of perspectives and resonates with audiences.
. Your input will play an important role in shaping this meaningful exhibition.
Systemwide IT Assessment and Engagement with CampusWorks
The South Dakota Board of Regents has engaged CampusWorks, a higher education consulting firm, to conduct a systemwide Information Technology assessment across the Board office and all six public universities. This work is part of a broader effort to ensure the Regent system is positioned with a future-ready, sustainable and well-governed IT operating model(s) that can support institutional priorities over the next decade.
The CampusWorks engagement will run from now through Dec. 2026 and is focused on:
- Developing a clear understanding of the current IT environment across central and campus IT
- Identifying opportunities to improve efficiency, service effectiveness, governance and coordination
- Defining a future-state IT operating model and roadmap, including alignment with anticipated Banner SaaS operating expectations
- Supporting long-term sustainability, risk management and systemwide initiatives while respecting campus-specific missions and realities
This is a forward-looking assessment, not an audit. The goal is to collaboratively define where IT across the Regent system needs to be and the practical steps to get there.
Many individuals across the University will participate in a variety of activities to support this initiative. Your participation is vital to ensuring that the assessment reflects both systemwide priorities and campus-level realities.
CampusWorks will visit SDSU Brookings campus on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, to gather information and insights directly from various constituencies.
I would encourage you to seek out one of the opportunities listed below to share your valuable insights directly with the CampusWorks team. Forums will be held at the University Student Union in the Pioneer Room #265.
- Faculty Forum: 9:30-10:15 a.m.
- Open Forum: 4:15-5 p.m.
Also, be on the lookout for additional communication throughout the year to stay informed of the progress of this activity.
Campus input will directly inform:
- Recommendations related to service delivery models, staffing, governance and shared services
- A clearly defined future-state IT operating model
- A phased, prioritized roadmap that balances near-term improvements with long-term strategic goals
- Guidance that respects campus mission, scale, and operational context
Final deliverables will be shared with system and campus leadership and will support informed decision-making at both the campus and Board of Regents levels.
We appreciate your partnership and engagement in this important work. Your perspective is essential to ensuring the outcomes are practical, actionable and aligned with the needs of your area and the Regent system as a whole.
Thank you for your participation.
Distinguished Alumni Nominations
The SDSU Alumni & Foundation recognizes a class of Distinguished Alumni each year, honoring individuals whose outstanding achievements, service and leadership have made a lasting impact in their professions, communities and at South Dakota State University.
Honorees are nominated by members of the SDSU community and selected by a committee that considers their impact on the history of SDSU, their contributions to the state of South Dakota and their demonstrated spirit of service throughout their lives and careers. Recipients will be recognized at the 2026 Legends & Leaders banquet on the eve of Hobo Day.
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Jacks Gear Drive Donations
The SDSU Alumni & Foundation, in partnership with vlog Central, is hosting the .
From now through April 28, gently used vlogs apparel and gear may be donated at the Jerome J. Lohr Building or either vlog Central location during normal business hours. Donated items will be made available for purchase at the Jacks Gear Sale on May 5, with all proceeds supporting Jack’s Cupboard and its efforts to serve SDSU students.
Please consider donating gently used SDSU gear to support this important campus resource.
Volunteers Needed for SDSU Commencement 2026
South Dakota State University’s 2026 commencement ceremonies are quickly approaching, and volunteers are needed to help ensure a memorable and successful experience for our graduates and their families and friends.
Faculty and staff are encouraged to consider volunteering their time and talents to support this important celebration. Commencement is one of the university’s most meaningful traditions, and the success of our on-campus ceremonies depends on the support and participation of the campus community.
Please take a few minutes to review how and when you may be able to assist and consider encouraging colleagues to do the same. Your participation helps create a welcoming and celebratory environment for our graduates and their guests.
To indicate your availability, please complete the . If you have questions about volunteering, please contact Regen Wiederrich.
Thank you in advance for helping make SDSU’s 2026 commencement ceremonies a success.
University Participation in SBIR/STTR Workshop
Faculty, researchers and staff are invited to participate in an upcoming workshop titled “University Participation in SBIR/STTR: Pre-Submission to Post-Award.” The session will explore key considerations for universities during the development of an SBIR/STTR proposal and after an award has been received.
The training webinar will be presented by BBC Entrepreneurial Training & Consulting and will focus on the university perspective when navigating Small Business Innovation Research and Small Business Technology Transfer opportunities.
Date: Thursday, April 23
Time: 12-1:30 p.m. CT (11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. MT)
Participants may attend in person at locations across South Dakota or join virtually. South Dakota Biotech will sponsor lunch at all in-person locations.
In-Person Locations (registration required by April 9):
- Sioux Falls: Discovery District, Conference Room 104, 4600 Nobel St.
- Rapid City: Vanderboom Laboratory for Entrepreneurial Research (V-Lab), Room 109, 501 E. St. Joseph St.
- Aberdeen: Barnett Center, Kessler’s Champion Club, 1200 S. Jay St.
- Brookings: University Student Union, Dakota A and C, 1421 Student Union Lane
- Vermillion: Slagle Hall, Room 107, 414 E. Clark St.
Virtual Option: Registration is open through April 23. Please see the registration links online secure your spot.
Grant Camp 2026 – Call for Applications
Faculty members interested in developing compelling proposals for external funding and building connections with potential collaborators across disciplines are invited to the 2026 Grant Camp hosted by the Division of Research, May 18-21. The event will be held in the Pioneer Room (SSU 265) in the University Student Union.
Grant Camp is designed to demystify the grant application process for SDSU researchers. While the program is particularly beneficial for early-career faculty, seasoned researchers seeking greater familiarity with external funding opportunities are also encouraged to apply. The program is open to research-active faculty in all disciplines and at all ranks, regardless of tenure status.
Participants must:
- Be research-active
- Commit to attending the sessions (May 18-21, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.)
- Agree to submit a proposal for external funding by the end of the 2026-27 academic year
Applications may be submitted through InfoReady by April 6: .
Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day
Registration is now open for Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day, which will be held Tuesday, April 14, in the University Student Union. The new event merges the events formerly known as Undergraduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day and Graduate Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day into one daylong event celebrating and promoting student involvement in research and creative activity at SDSU. The schedule and more information about the event can be found on the Student Research, Scholarship and Creative Activity Day website.
All students enrolled at SDSU are encouraged to participate. There are separate registration forms for the undergraduate and graduate poster showcases, and those links can be found on sdstate.edu along with an agenda of events. Both events are limited to the first 100 students who register.
A Sousa Symposium
In celebration of the 250th birthday of the United States, the South Dakota State University School of Performing Arts will host “Sousa in South Dakota: A Symposium” on April 10-11.
This two-day event will honor the life and legacy of composer and conductor John Philip Sousa (1854-1932), an American icon best known for “The Stars and Stripes Forever,” the national march of the United States.
The symposium will highlight Sousa’s lasting influence on American music and culture, offering opportunities for learning, engagement and appreciation of his work. Additional information is available online.
Hobo Dough Off-Campus Program
South Dakota State University has completed a review of the Hobo Dough program and its payment service partnerships. As part of this evaluation, SDSU will discontinue the off-campus merchant portion of the Hobo Dough program, effective May 15.
What is not changing
The Hobo Dough program will continue to operate on campus. Students, faculty and staff may still use Hobo Dough at all participating SDSU locations, including dining services, vending, printing, vlog Central and other campus services. On-campus functionality remains unchanged.
What is changing
After May 15, Hobo Dough will no longer be accepted at off-campus businesses. SDSU is working directly with participating merchants to ensure a smooth transition.
Why this change is happening
This update reflects SDSU’s efforts to streamline payment services, adapt to current usage trends and ensure program resources best support campus needs.
Questions?
For additional information, please contact Card Services at 605-688-6943.
Thank you for your understanding as we implement this change.
Updated Policies
New and updated university policies continue to be adopted and published. For the most recent updates, visit the New and Recently Revised Policies page on sdstate.edu.
