DSU awarded LAIC Growth and Achievement award

April 7, 2017

The Lake Area Improvement Corporation (LAIC) awarded Dakota State University the 2016 Growth and Achievement award at the organization’s annual meeting on April 6.

LAIC Executive Officer Julie Gross said DSU has been “a solid rock in our community and exemplifies our theme of being a key to our community’s success.” She noted the university’s growth in enrollment, programs and physical footprint as the basis for their choice.

DSU continues “to break new barriers, leading to growth and expansion,” Gross added, pointing out the potential for continued development through the school’s new proposed MadLabs facility.

DSU President Dr. José-Marie Griffiths accepted the award, noting “the long list of distinguished awardees” since the award was first given out in 2003, saying “we are pleased to join them.”

Griffiths was also the featured speaker for the event, introduced by DeLon Mork, LAIC Board vice president. He said Griffiths “has a tremendous vision for DSU, our community, and our state,” and he advised the guests at the luncheon to “buckle your seat belts, because her vision is becoming reality.”

She credited the university’s success to “a collaborative effort, as nothing is ever really done alone.” She acknowledged colleagues, including university leadership, current and former staff members, and alumni, “anyone affiliated with DSU, past or present,” as she accepted the award on their behalf.