December 16, 2024
International competitions hone good cyber skills
Dakota State University students are honing their cybersecurity skills everywhere they can, in class, through campus clubs, and with competitions that take place around the world.
December 13, 2024
Welynn animation accepted to world film festival
Daniel Welynn’s animation Karuk Fire Race has been accepted into several film festivals, including The World’s Independent Film Festival in San Francisco. He is an associate professor in the College of Arts & Sciences at Dakota State University.
December 12, 2024
Slattery: DSU was made for me
Angela Slattery, the fall 2024 commencement student speaker, said DSU was made for her, allowing her to develop her identity in the classroom and on the basketball court.
December 11, 2024
South Dakota Native American artists visit DSU
For the past 50 years, DSU’s Native American Student Association (NASA) has brought speakers to campus and hosted events to celebrate Indigenous cultures. This month, NASA brought three Native American artists to campus to talk with students about their artistic journeys.
December 10, 2024
Judy Dittman is DSU’s fall commencement speaker
Dr. Judy Dittman will be the fall 2024 commencement speaker at DSU on Dec. 14. Alumna Tammy Miller will be receiving an honorary degree for public service.
December 9, 2024
Nanocon is game changer
Nanocon is a game changer for the student committee members who organize the free gaming convention held at Dakota State University by teaching them project management, organizational skills, and teamwork.
November 21, 2024
Biology program at DSU is student-centered and flexible
The biology program at DSU is student-centered and flexible, preparing students for a variety of career paths.
November 20, 2024
Research shows experiential learning happens in simulations
Dr. David De Jong, dean of the College of Education & Human Performance, collaborated with Dr. Sara Dexter of the University of Virginia, an international leader in simulation research, to publish a research paper on this topic. “Experiential learning through simulations in fully online asynchronous courses: Exploring the role of self-debriefing,” has been accepted for publication in The Internet and Higher Education.
November 19, 2024
Delta Mu Delta’s Charles Fazzi Award honors student’s potential
Garret Leiseth won a national Delta Mu Delta scholarship. The Charles Fazzi Award is a $1,000 scholarship that recognizes students with a generosity of spirit, creativity, and resources who are outstanding business students.
November 18, 2024
Fall research grants awarded at DSU
Dakota State University offers funded research opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students through mentored research initiative programs. Sixteen undergraduate and seven graduate students were awarded funds to complete their research projects for the 2024-25 academic year.
November 18, 2024
Waldner appointed director of Municipal Cybersecurity Grant Program
Dakota State University and South Dakota Attorney General Marty Jackley announce the hiring of Mike Waldner as director of the newly established Municipal Cybersecurity Grant Program. This initiative, funded through Senate Bill 187, will enhance the cybersecurity infrastructure of South Dakota's municipalities.
November 15, 2024
Smith awarded STEM outreach grant
Dr. Kevin Smith knows how important math is for STEM careers and a skilled workforce, and he’ll use a South Dakota Biotech/SD EPSCoR grant to create an outreach program helping students be positive about math and STEM.
November 14, 2024
AT&T donates to CybHER
AT&T is continuing its partnership with CybHER® to bring technology outreach and digital literacy training to the state’s tribal students through local Boys & Girls Clubs.
October 31, 2024
Faculty win Hackin’ Fest competition
Four DSU faculty in The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences won the Capture the Flag competition at the 2024 Wild West Hackin’ Fest in Deadwood.
October 25, 2024
DSU professor and international research team discover dinosaur flap-run
Dr. Alex Dececchi, Assistant Professor of Biology in Dakota State University’s College of Arts & Sciences, is part of an exciting recent discovery. Dececchi led a team of international researchers in discovering evidence for the first time that small-feathered dinosaurs ran at speeds achieved only by using their wings to ‘flap-run.’
October 23, 2024
DSU alumnus shares lifelong learning message
While on campus, DSU alumnus and NBA referee Tre Maddox, B.S. (’90), spent time with student-athletes, gave a talk sponsored by DSU’s TriBeta Club, visited the new athletics facilities, and reminisced about his time at Dakota State.
October 23, 2024
Karl Mundt Oral Interpretation Tournament is Saturday
The 41st annual Karl E. Mundt Dakota Invitational Oral Interpretation Tournament will be held on Saturday, October 26, at Dakota State University in Madison, S.D. Over 225 competitors from more than 20 schools will be participating. The students will compete in three rounds in the morning, and final rounds in the afternoon. Students perform in various categories including poetry, oratory, humor, storytelling, drama, duet, and reader’s theatre.
October 22, 2024
Two Vietnam veteran artists featured in DSU gallery
Dakota State University’s First Bank & Trust Art Gallery is featuring an exhibition of two former Vietnam combat artists through Monday, Nov. 25. The joint exhibition, sponsored through the College of Arts & Sciences, features the work of Stephan Randall and James Pollock. Called “Sketch then Paint,” the show includes some of their plein air paintings, which refers to the act of painting outdoors with the artist’s subject in full view.
October 21, 2024
DSU research impacts national conference
Dakota State University researchers made an impressive showing at a summer professional conference, demonstrating that DSU faculty and students conduct quality, cutting-edge research that contributes to theory and practice.
October 9, 2024
Competitions and passions drive Vongkasemsiri
Whether she’s on the volleyball court, participating in an international cybersecurity competition, or running the club she created, Gwen Vongkasemsiri loves competitions. A senior cyber operations and network & security administration double major, Vongkasemsiri chose to attend DSU after analyzing a list of schools across the U.S. that have excellent cybersecurity programs.
October 4, 2024
’DAYTRIP‘ selected for multiple festivals
Dakota State senior Beau Headrick’s 2D animation “DAYTRIP” was selected for several film festivals, one of them international. Follow Fuzz on his journey to climb Mount Magoo all by himself, as he realizes along the way that maybe the summit is not the goal, but the company he keeps while on the journey.
October 4, 2024
Summer Milestones
DSU led efforts this summer to bridge the United States’ cyber-gap, educate the next generation of cyber experts, and lead the nation on the international cyber stage.
October 3, 2024
Educators Rising Learning Expo Oct. 9
Dakota State University’s College of Education & Human Performance is hosting an Educators Rising Learning Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 9. The event is an opportunity for high school students interested in teaching to learn what it means to be an educator.
October 2, 2024
Researcher seeks to identify educational skeletons
Emme Josko's research project is dedicated to putting educational skeletons back together and attempting to identify what country the skeletons are from and some of the genetic traits attributable to them.
September 27, 2024
MarketBeat internship provides real-world experience
Brandon Jansen spent the summer as an intern at MarketBeat, a Sioux Falls company that got its start on Dakota State University’s campus.
September 26, 2024
DSU receives $1 million SBA grant
For the second time in three years, Dakota State University’s Paulson Cyber and Economic Development Center has received a grant through the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) Cybersecurity for Small Business Pilot Program to help small businesses stay cyber safe.
September 26, 2024
Record enrollment in honors program
This fall, 67 incoming freshmen have joined the honors program, the General Beadle Honors Program, the largest incoming class so far.
September 25, 2024
Healing through art
Madison Miller published her first poetry book, "He doesn't deserve to know me." The book was a way for her to address her complicated relationship with her father.
September 23, 2024
Sharing best practices allows for innovation
Andrew Sathoff, assistant professor of biology at DSU, helped organize a hands-on teaching session at the National Plant Health Conference in Memphis over the summer.
September 20, 2024
No goal is too big
RayLee Wallis’s summer internship in the Secretary of the Army Primary Cyber Advisor’s office taught her that she is capable of doing big things. “I can develop the skills necessary for contributing in a fast-paced work environment.”
September 18, 2024
Trojans Give Back to heart of DSU
A total of 953 students, faculty, and staff contributed 2,709 service hours to more than 40 projects in Madison. And over 1,200 Trojan supporters raised over $335,000 for student scholarships, exceeding the goal of $300,000. These are all increases over last year’s totals.
September 16, 2024
DSU HIIM faculty present at virtual conference
DSU faculty Dr. Renae Spohn and Julie Wulf Plimpton shared about health informatics and information management topics at the virtual CAHIIM (Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics & Information Management Education) 2024: Summit on Higher Education.
September 11, 2024
Homecoming royalty crowned
Braxton Lacher and Maya Plummer were crowned king and queen at Dakota State’s coronation ceremony.
September 11, 2024
DSU enrollment numbers pass 3,770
Dakota State University total enrollment for fall 2024 is up 7.6% from last year, continuing steady enrollment increases over the last 25 years.
September 11, 2024
Study abroad trip takes K-12 teachers along ancient trade route
DSU Professor David Kenley led a unique modern-day trek along the Silk Road as part of a program for K-12 teachers from across the United States. The trip was funded by the National Consortium for Teaching about Asia (NCTA).
September 10, 2024
CybHER refocuses outreach to K-8
For over 10 years, CybHER® at Dakota State University has offered outreach programs for all ages, with a focus on middle and high school students. Now, expanding on this vision, CybHER is increasing its efforts to reach K-8 students, understanding that impactful early education can significantly shape the next generation of cybersecurity leaders.
September 10, 2024
Meaningful Contributions
Dakota State University’s research exchange program is growing in size, impact, and reputation through an industrial immersion program for graduate students from DSU and Swedish universities.
September 10, 2024
Oak Ridge internship leads to expanded opportunities
What started as a summer internship with Oak Ridge National Laboratory has been extended into another opportunity for Dakota State student Ashton Ruesch. He will be continuing to work as a remote intern for the organization this academic year.
September 10, 2024
Big day elevates DSU legacy
The opening of the Beacom PREMIER Complex will create distinctive opportunities that will benefit Dakota State and the surrounding region for years to come.
September 4, 2024
Robert & Karen Hemre named 2024 parade marshals
Robert (’68) and Karen (’68) Hemre are the 2024 Trojan Days parade marshals.
September 3, 2024
Exceeding Expectations
First-year numbers show that expectations were exceeded in the first year of the Governors Cyber Academy, a program that fuels students’ passions for cyber careers.
August 27, 2024
DSU's True Trojans
Dakota State University has named several employees “True Trojans” at the 2024 Welcome and University Address on August 19.
August 23, 2024
Scott & Sara Schlisner and family named Ag Bowl Captains
Longtime Madison area farmers Scott & Sara Schlisner and family are 2024's Ag Bowl Captains. The family will be honored at the DSU game on Thursday, Aug. 29.
August 23, 2024
DSU’s AdapT Lab modifies car for Lifescape
Working with LifeScape in Sioux Falls, faculty and DSU students in the AdapT Lab retrofit electric cars to give kids the ability to explore their world.
August 20, 2024
NBA referee Tre Maddox to visit campus
NBA Referee and DSU alumnus Tre Maddox is returning to DSU for a visit.
August 8, 2024
DSU signs new agreement with Army Cyber Center of Excellence
Students at two organizations will benefit from a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) between Dakota State University and the Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE).
August 8, 2024
Peraton awards DSU student scholarships
Dakota State University students are following in their parents’ footsteps.
August 1, 2024
DSU student organizations honored for distinction
Three student organizations were honored at the late summer Board of Regents’ meeting on campus.
July 30, 2024
Bravo presents research at national conference
Recent DSU graduate Denyce Bravo successfully shared her research into the antimicrobial properties of alfalfa honey at the American Society of Microbiology (ASM) annual conference in Atlanta.
July 25, 2024
DSU FBLA achieves national success
Every DSU student who competed in the Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) state competition qualified for nationals. After the national competition in June, two returned home with first place and several others came in the top 10 nationally.
June 27, 2024
Old Dominion to Headline Kickoff Concert of Trojan Nights
Dakota State University is hosting Trojan Nights to celebrate the opening of the Brian Kern Family Stadium at the Beacom PREMIER Complex. The event will kick off on Tuesday, August 27, with a concert featuring Old Dominion with special guests Brothers Osborne, Elle King, and Host/DJ Blake Horstmann. The concert is exclusively sponsored by First PREMIER Bank and PREMIER Bankcard.
June 27, 2024
Berry named Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences
Dr. Stacey Berry has been named Dean of the College of Arts & Sciences at Dakota State University. Provost Rebecca Hoey announced the hiring following a nationwide search.
June 26, 2024
Andrew Sogn named DSU’s Chief Marketing Officer
Andrew Sogn is Dakota State University’s new Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). He comes to the Madison, S.D. University with more than a decade of higher education experience, including the past eight years at South Dakota State University, where he had most recently been Assistant Director of Marketing & Communications.
June 24, 2024
Guo earns NSF EPSCoR LEAPS-MPS grant
Dr. Peng Guo has been awarded a Launching Early-Career Academic Pathways in the Mathematical and Physical Sciences (LEAPS-MPS) grant from the National Science Foundation (NSF) through the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) for research in quantum physics.
June 24, 2024
Renewed and rising: SBS CyberSecurity strengthens support for DSU
SBS CyberSecurity has renewed its partnership with Dakota State University and commitment to educational excellence with a $300,000 donation to support CybHER and the SBS Scholarship Endowment.
June 20, 2024
Security scholars amazed by opportunity
Dakota State University students Maci Kasuske and Jackson Heiberger were chosen to be RSAC Security Scholars. They attended the RSA Conference in San Francisco in May where they learned about cyberthreats, met others in the cybersecurity community, and learned about new technology.
June 18, 2024
DSU joins new SD Cybercrime Prevention Consortium
Cyber threats and challenges are a normal part of today’s digital landscape. Addressing them requires a dedicated effort from everyone in society, including governmental agencies and academic institutions.
June 13, 2024
Competition results will benefit DSU, corporate partner
Competition results will benefit DSU, corporate partner. Multi-disciplinary teams partner with Sterling Computers. Richard Sanchez is great about answering questions about Dakota State University.
June 12, 2024
NSF funds South Dakota STEM education pathways
Dakota State University has joined 10 other state agencies in an effort to create pathways for young learners to become interested in STEM fields. This work will be funded through a National Science Foundation grant program aimed at enhancing the state's research and development competitiveness and promote scientific progress nationwide.
June 10, 2024
DSU and Concordia blend strengths through a new partnership
Dakota State University and Concordia College (Minn.) are unique institutions of higher learning, but by blending their strengths, they will be able to provide new opportunities for their students’ successful careers.
June 10, 2024
DSU to join Cybersecurity Clinic Consortium
Dakota State University has been selected to receive $1 million in grant funding and wraparound support from Google’s Cybersecurity Clinics Fund to establish the Dakota State University Cybersecurity Clinic.
June 5, 2024
Data privacy poses challenges to AI in healthcare
Privacy and data access stand head-to-head like combatants, challenging researchers who seek to develop healthcare applications for artificial intelligence.
May 24, 2024
Mastering a math mindset with gamification
DSU Associate Professor Dr. Kevin Smith and his education students partnered with Madison Elementary’s second-grade classrooms for eight weeks of math activities, which he calls the Chasing Einstein Challenge.
May 23, 2024
Virtual Teach Camp returns to DSU
Dakota State University’s College of Education & Human Performance’s annual virtual Teach Camp returns on Friday, June 7. The free, one-day conference, open to all PK-12 teachers, is held via Zoom. Participants interested in earning one graduate credit for attending can do so for a $40 fee. Sessions will begin at 8:15 a.m. and continue until 3:30 p.m. CT.
May 22, 2024
Spring 2024 Honors List Released
A total of 661 full-time and 188 part-time students qualified for the President’s Academic Honors list for the 2024 spring semester at Dakota State University.
May 22, 2024
Game design for the next gen
An immersive and unique curriculum series in Dakota State University’s Computer Game Design program provides students with the opportunity to develop entire games from concept to console as a team.
May 21, 2024
Dakota State to join Frontier Conference
Dakota State University Athletics is joining the Frontier Conference effective in the 2025-2026 academic year.
May 15, 2024
Romance scams pose financial and psychological threat
Romance scams pose financial and psychological threat
May 15, 2024
From reps to strides
Dakota State University’s exercise science program goes beyond the sweat, teaching students about the human body, physical activity, health, nutrition, research and exercise prescription for athletes and the general population.
May 14, 2024
DSU doctoral students present at international symposium
San Juan, Puerto Rico, has much to offer – beaches and churches, history and museums. For two Dakota State University doctoral students – Tjada Nelson and Bryan Ikei – it also offered the opportunity to share research they have conducted in Intelligent Security and Privacy.
May 3, 2024
Stratton completes NSA Codebreaker Challenge for 4th time
Dakota State University placed 5th nationwide in the National Security Agency’s (NSA) annual 2023 Codebreaker Challenge.
May 2, 2024
DSU alumnus Matt Paulson is spring commencement speaker
For Dakota State University’s spring graduates, May 4 will be a big day. It will also be a big day for alumnus Matt Paulson, who is returning to his alma mater as commencement speaker. He will also be presented with an honorary degree for public service.
May 1, 2024
DSU graduate named Chester Teacher of the Year
Chester Teacher of the Year Sara Mersch knows the school district well, having graduated from Chester High School in 1996. She walked the same halls her students walk now, ate in the same cafeteria.
May 1, 2024
Embrace the Unknown
Graduate student Zach Rohrbach to serve as DSU’s student commencement speaker.
May 1, 2024
Dakota State hires new leader for DSU Foundation
The Dakota State University Foundation has a new CEO and Vice President of Institutional Advancement.
April 30, 2024
Longevity Milestones
Dakota State University recognized employees for their dedication and commitment at the annual Longevity Reception on April 16.
April 29, 2024
DSU College of Ed to become College of Education & Human Performance
The potential for growth in Dakota State University’s heritage mission of education is bringing about a name change.
April 25, 2024
Honored Students
Every year, we are able to celebrate the achievements of our students, those who have worked especially hard to excel and contribute to their own future as well as to the lives and progress of those around them.
April 24, 2024
Award Winning Faculty
Several Dakota State University faculty members received awards at the annual Honors Reception on April 18.
April 24, 2024
Headrick wins best 2D animation for fall semester
Beau Headrick, a junior Digital Art & Design Production Animation major from Canton, S.D., chose DSU for its tech focus and great animation program. Headrick won the fall semester’s best project for 2D animation.
April 19, 2024
Inspired to Educate
By the third grade, Madeline Hegg already knew what she wanted to be when she grew up. Like many individuals who choose to pursue a career in education, she was inspired by teachers throughout her schooling.
April 15, 2024
Culberson wins fall semester award for modeling & texturing
Lainy Culberson, a senior Digital Art & Design (DAD) – Production Animation major from Rapid City, was awarded best 3D modeling and texturing for the fall semester for her piece titled “Retro Building.”
April 15, 2024
DSU programming team advances to North American Championship
Dakota State University’s International Competitive Programming Competition (ICPC) team will compete at the North American Championship in May.
April 11, 2024
DSU adds Espionage Camp to summer schedule
High schoolers can trade their bats and gloves for laptops this summer by registering for Dakota State University’s first-ever Cyber Espionage Camp in from June 24 to 26.
April 10, 2024
DSU to offer accelerated degrees
Dakota State University is developing new academic options to help students enter the career field sooner.
April 10, 2024
DSU art students to exhibit projects
Drawings, digital illustrations and photography, paintings, animations, digital sound projects, and 3D works will fill the BrickHouse this week. These works, created by DSU Digital Art & Design (DAD) students, will be displayed by the Madison Area Arts Council (MAAC) at the BrickHouse on Thursday, April 11 from 7 to 9 p.m.
April 5, 2024
DSU creates new double major option
Dakota State University students interested in a future in the medical field can now double major in Biology and Exercise Science.
April 5, 2024
Create and captivate
Dakota State University will offer a new interdisciplinary degree program in Digital Content Creation beginning fall 2024.
April 4, 2024
DSU to offer advanced AI degrees
Dakota State University is elevating its emerging technology offerings with advanced degrees in Artificial Intelligence. Master’s programs will begin in fall 2024.
April 4, 2024
DSU to be a sponsor for upcoming AI Expo for National Competitiveness
“SCSP’s greatest strength lies in its ability to convene, through its global reach, the wide variety of parties involved with AI and emerging technologies." President José-Marie Griffiths. DSU is pleased to be a sponsor for their upcoming AI Expo for National Competitiveness.
March 27, 2024
Alfalfa research expands to honey
A new project at Dakota State University shows why honey is useful to treat infections on a molecular basis by looking at honey produced by bees that gather nectar from alfalfa and its antimicrobial properties.
March 27, 2024
Princeton Review ranks DSU game design program in top 50 programs
The Princeton Review has named Dakota State University’s game design program among the top 50 undergraduate programs.
March 21, 2024
Beyond the bedside
An interest in science, medicine, and health will often conjure images of potential careers as doctors, nurses, dentists, paramedics, and therapists, but there are other avenues for those who would prefer to work with different aspects of patient care. Health informatics and information include all data related to a patient’s medical history, including their symptoms, diagnoses, procedures, and outcomes.
March 18, 2024
DSU to host over 120 youth for JA-in-a-Day
Dakota State University’s College of Business & Information Systems (BIS) will host over 120 youth from rural schools near Madison on Thursday, March 28 for a Junior Achievement (JA) Day learning about entrepreneurship.
March 18, 2024
DSU Entrepreneurs Day moves to Sioux Falls
Dakota State University’s fourth annual Entrepreneurs Day will be held in Sioux Falls for the first time, taking place at Startup Sioux Falls on Friday, March 22.
March 13, 2024
CISA Director looks to inspire the next generation of cyber leaders
Jen Easterly, CISA Director to speak at Dakota State March 22. She will speak at the annual DakotaCon Cybersecurity Conference at 9 a.m. in Dakota Prairie Playhouse.
March 12, 2024
CPTC team wins two awards at globals
Dakota State University’s Collegiate Penetration Testing Competition (CPTC) team competed at globals in Rochester, N.Y., winning two awards. Penetration testing helps companies and organizations know what is and isn’t vulnerable in their network. CPTC allows collegiate cybersecurity students to perform real-world penetration testing with a fictional business.
March 12, 2024
Gene Swallow art featured in DSU gallery
Contemporary Lakota artist Gene Swallow’s “Modern Lakota” exhibit is on display in Dakota State University’s First Bank & Trust Gallery now through April 15.
March 12, 2024
Personal growth leads to program growth for DSU’s Cyber Academy
Dr. Fenecia Homan, dean of the Governors Cyber Academy at Dakota State University, speaks a special language: the language of an educator.
March 12, 2024
Klungseth researching flexible seating in college setting
Pedal. Glide. Stand. Balance. These are a few of the options available in flexible seating classrooms, or classrooms that allow for student movement. While there has been plenty of research on flexible seating in the K-12 education environment, that hasn’t been the case in higher education, so Dr. Scott Klungseth, Associate Professor in Exercise Science at Dakota State University, is looking to change that.
March 7, 2024
Two join ranks of CyberCorps® scholars at DSU
Two Dakota State University students have joined the ranks of CyberCorps® scholars. This Scholarship for Service program allows students to receive financial support as they prepare to start their cybersecurity careers in the government sector.
March 1, 2024
DSU professor’s photo featured on billboard
Dakota State University Art Professor Tom Jones has his artwork displayed on a billboard on Highway 34, west of Madison.
February 23, 2024
DSU to celebrate 40 years of technology-focused mission
On Feb. 29, 1984, then-Governor Bill Janklow signed House Bill 1357, changing Dakota State’s mission to include technology in all programs. The yearbook at the time called this “A Brand New Day.”
February 15, 2024
Beacom Dean’s Cup experience is resume-builder
Dakota State University students excel in all types of cyber competitions, whether they be regional, national, or international.
February 14, 2024
DSU student sees latest tech at trade show
Dakota State University junior Cyber Operations major David Siemienas attended the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), an annual trade show organized by the Consumer Technology Association, in January.
February 9, 2024
Senior FDIC examiner to speak at DSU
Dakota State University’s Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA) Club is bringing Andy McQuistan, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) Senior Examiner, to campus to speak to students.
February 9, 2024
Mastering the opportunities of an MBA
Dakota State University’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) program prepares students for a variety of career opportunities, including entrepreneurship.
February 8, 2024
Quantum researcher to speak at DSU
Quantum researcher Dr. Vladimir Gasparyan will visit Dakota State University to speak about quantum mechanics on Thursday, February 22, at 1 p.m. in MadLabs.
February 8, 2024
From the Great Plains to Washington, D.C.: DSU In Our Nation’s Capital
Cybersecurity and AI continue to be a focus in D.C. and nationwide, and Dakota State University is pleased to lead the conversation in these emerging areas, highlighting the importance of public-private partnerships. The Fall 2023 semester included major successes for the University in the nation’s capital.
February 1, 2024
Gerald Auger wins Wild West Hackin’ Fest award
Gerald Auger has built his brand: Simply Cyber. Through a YouTube channel, he shares information, builds community, and helps others launch careers in cybersecurity.
January 29, 2024
DSU Faculty research drives advances in AI, Quantum
Dakota State faculty are leaders in emerging fields like artificial intelligence and quantum.
January 23, 2024
DSU hosts Global Game Jam site
Dakota State University is hosting a Global Game Jam site at The Beacom Institute of Technology from January 26-28.
January 19, 2024
From setbacks to comebacks
A non-profit organization has helped four international students find their homes at DSU. The four students found their way to Dakota State University this year through Second Chance at Higher Education, an organization dedicated to helping international students in need of financial aid and scholarships attend universities in the United States, Canada, and Europe.
January 18, 2024
Second annual Data Analytics Competition at DSU
The Data Analytics Competition at Dakota State University has returned for a second year. This free event allows collegiate teams to evaluate big data sets and make data forecasts for real-world business needs. It gives students plenty of opportunities to grow their critical thinking, collaboration, and presentation skills.
January 11, 2024
Professional accountancy career path opens doors
The term “professional accountancy” may invoke images of a future in bookkeeping or doing taxes, but the career paths with a professional accountancy degree are anything but limited. Graduates can find positions as data analysts, project accountants or C-suite administrators.
January 5, 2024
2023 Fall Honors List Released
A total of 702 full-time and 183 part-time students qualified for the President’s Academic Honors list for the 2023 fall semester at Dakota State University (DSU) in Madison, S.D.
January 5, 2024
Generations unite
Stephanie Veltkamp’s grandmother, Arlene Johnson Hoek, graduated from high school in 1953 and went on to earn her teaching certificate from DSU, when it was known as General Beadle State Teachers College. Now, Veltkamp is earning her teaching degree from Dakota State through the Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway (TAP) program.
January 5, 2024
A legacy of leadership
DSU alumna Dr. Summer Schultz (B.S. ‘98, M.S. ‘03) was inspired to become an educator by many individuals. Most notable among these was her father, a high school principal and athletic director at Colman-Egan.
December 27, 2023
Anderson leads literacy at DSU
Over the past five years, Anderson has been the higher education representative through the South Dakota Department of Education State Personnel Development Grants (SDPG) program, and worked with six other educators to create a literacy framework or literacy plan for South Dakota.
December 18, 2023
Regents expand continuing ed options for state employees
State employees will have expanded educational opportunities after action from the state Board of Regents (BOR) this week.
December 18, 2023
BOR approves expanding SD Advantage program
The South Dakota Board of Regents voted this week to expand its South Dakota Advantage program to include students from Minnesota, Kansas, and Missouri.
December 13, 2023
Resonant Landscapes: DSU researchers make music with nature
DSU student Carter Gordon is collaborating with Dr. Tate Carson on “Resonant Landscapes: Soundscapes of South Dakota,” a research project which will use field recordings from South Dakota state parks to electronically create music.
December 6, 2023
DSU provides graduates with a competitive edge
DSU provides graduates with a competitive edge. Justice Forster to speak at fall commencement.
December 4, 2023
Charles Luke is Fall Commencement speaker
Charles Luke will be the fall commencement speaker at Dakota State University on December 9.
November 17, 2023
Record breaking Nanocon brings in over 1100
Nanocon, Dakota State’s annual free gaming convention, broke its attendance record this year, bringing in just over 1,100 people throughout the four-day event.
November 17, 2023
Two DSU programs are eligible providers for SD Workforce Innovation Opportunity Act
The Health Informatics and Information Management associate degree program and the Health Care Coding Certificate program are eligible providers of South Dakota’s Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act (WIOA) program.
November 16, 2023
DSU Undergraduate research grants awarded
Thirteen undergraduate students were awarded funds to complete their research projects for the 2023-24 academic year.
November 16, 2023
DSU Graduate students awarded research grants
The Graduate Research Initiative has selected five graduate students to receive grants to conduct mentored research for the 2023-24 academic year.
November 15, 2023
New agreements expand options for students in Health Information programs
Dakota State University has new articulation agreements with regional community colleges for Health Information Management (HIM) programs.
November 15, 2023
DSU awarded grant to help low-income STEM students
DSU awarded grant to help low-income STEM students. Scholarships provide financial assistance and academic support.
November 14, 2023
Bell receives Civilian Service Medal
Bell receives Civilian Service Medal for work as an educator. Bell also part of team creating curriculum guide for NATO.
November 14, 2023
Grants awarded for faculty research
Faculty Research Initiative (FRI) grants for the 2023-24 school year have been selected.
November 14, 2023
Game Developer is Global Entrepreneur Week speaker
When entrepreneur Nick Cash says life is a game, he means it literally.
November 13, 2023
For educators, ongoing learning around technology is vital to their profession
Technology permeates nearly every aspect of our lives, and education is no exception. This makes Dakota State University’s Master of Science in Educational Technology (MSET) program an asset to a career in education.
November 13, 2023
DSU adds graduate certificate in esports coaching
After successfully adding a competitive esports program at Dakota State in the fall of 2019, DSU is expanding it from the athletics arena to the classroom. It is now offering a graduate certificate in Esports Coaching.
November 13, 2023
Lights, camera, animation
An internship during graduate school helped DSU alumna Breanne Butters build her career at DreamWorks Animation.
November 9, 2023
Thomas Jefferson expert was History & Ethics speaker
Dakota State University hosted their third annual History & Ethics forum on Tuesday, Nov. 7. This year’s guest speaker was Clay Jenkinson, Director of the Dakota Institute.
November 9, 2023
Dr. Mary Bell joined NATO DEEP Event
Dr. Mary Bell, Dean of The Beacom College, Joined NATO DEEP
November 8, 2023
Trojan Athletic Club's Annual Wild Game Feed Raises Over $31,000
The Trojan Athletics Club is proud to announce that its 8th Annual Wild Game Feed held on Thursday, November 2 was a huge success. The sold-out event at Dakota State University's Dakota Prairie Playhouse raised over $31,000 to support student-athletes at Dakota State University.
November 1, 2023
DSU receives lead donation of $7M for indoor practice facility
With a $7M lead donation from Philanthropist T. Denny Sanford, the University will look at a variety of plan options, but the initial consideration is a seasonal dome facility.
November 1, 2023
Dakota State research lab receives additional funding
Dakota State University’s cyber-research initiative has received additional support from one of its initial donors. Philanthropist T. Denny Sanford, who committed $50M to the project in 2022, recently promised another $10M.
October 24, 2023
Maj. Gen. Gaedecke kicks off Distinguished Speaker Series
Dakota State University hosted Major General David Gaedecke (USAF, Retired), as the inaugural guest of The Beacom Dean’s Distinguished Speaker Series.
October 20, 2023
Karl Mundt Oral Interpretation Tournament is Saturday
The 40th annual Karl E. Mundt Dakota Invitational Oral Interpretation Tournament will be held on Saturday, October 21, at Dakota State University in Madison, S.D.
October 18, 2023
Starrett to reach stars through position with Space Force
Connor Starrett learned recently that he was accepted for a position with the Space Force military branch and is excited to take on a cutting-edge role.
October 17, 2023
FDIC internship leads to job offer
DSU student Justice Forster has accepted a permanent position with the Federal Insurance Corporation (FDIC) upon his graduation in December. Forster spent the summer as an intern for the FDIC as part of the Financial Management Scholars Program.
October 10, 2023
DSU athlete is role model for local cancer survivor
Houston native Emmanuel Drain lost his left eye to retinoblastoma when he was four years old, but he didn’t let that stop him from living life and participating in things he loved, like football.
October 5, 2023
Educators Rising Learning Expo at DSU Oct. 11
Dakota State University’s College of Education is excited to host the Educators Rising Learning Expo on Wednesday, Oct. 11.
October 5, 2023
The distinctive impact of undergraduate research
Recent DSU graduate Jay Alexander attended the National Plant Health Conference with Dr. Andrew Sathoff to present alfalfa gene research they conducted last school year.
October 4, 2023
Andrea Thompson named CEO of DSU Applied Research Corp
Andrea Thompson has been named CEO of the Dakota State University Applied Research Corporation.
October 2, 2023
AT&T contributes to CybHER
AT&T contributes to CybHER. Donations will help bridge the digital divide for students in South Dakota’s tribal nations.
September 26, 2023
Day of Giving and Service successful
The Dakota State University Foundation raised over $300,000 for DSU programs and scholarships on September 14, which was Day of Giving 2023. A record-setting number of volunteers also participated in DSU’s annual Day of Service on the same day.
September 25, 2023
Sam Bloom photography featured in DSU Art Gallery
Sioux Falls-based photographer Sam Bloom has returned to his hometown of Madison for an exhibition in DSU’s First Bank & Trust Art Gallery. The exhibit is on display through Friday, Oct. 13.
September 14, 2023
Suzy Collignon-Hodgen & Max Hodgen named parade marshals
Dakota State alumni Max Hodgen (B.S. ’97 & ’99, M.S. ’09) and Suzy Collignon-Hodgen (B.S. ’98) are the 2023 Trojan Days Parade Marshals. The couple’s origins began at DSU.
September 13, 2023
King and Queen crowned at DSU
Tyler Thomas and Blen Asgedom were crowned king and queen at Dakota State’s Sept. 11 coronation ceremony.
September 13, 2023
DSU enrollment tops 3500
DSU enrollment tops 3500 for the first time ever. Growth seen in multiple categories.
September 10, 2023
Join DSU for Day of Giving
The Dakota State University Foundation invites the Madison community to RISE UP and help DSU reach the goal of raising $250,000 for Day of Giving on Thursday, Sept. 14. Day of Giving coincides with Dakota State’s homecoming celebration, Trojan Days.
September 10, 2023
Professors Find AI Most Useful for Lesson Plans, Discussions
Now quite acquainted with generative AI tools, educators at several U.S. universities have found them most helpful for guiding class discussions, fleshing out lesson plans and teaching about AI as an emerging technology.
September 6, 2023
Experiences prepared alumna for administrative position
Throughout her career in education, Becky Fjerstad (B.S. ’95) has served in various positions, such as paraprofessional, middle school teacher, and elementary school teacher. She is now beginning her second year as an administrator for the elementary school of her hometown of Wessington Springs.
August 29, 2023
Summer exchange program provides valuable AI workplace skills
In the AI Sweden and Dakota State University's Exchange program, students will work with three international exchange students between AI Sweden and DSU.
August 28, 2023
Johnson Farms named 2023 Ag Bowl Captains
This year’s Ag Bowl Captains are members of Johnson Farms from Madison. These humble farmers are part of the partnership between ag and education that has been part of the region’s past, present, and future.
August 28, 2023
DSU honors 'True'Trojan' award winners
Dakota State University has kicked off the new academic year by honoring several employees as “True Trojans.”
August 28, 2023
Supervisor training program recognized for quality
At DSU, we’re all about excellence and innovation. An interdisciplinary team used these concepts to create a unique supervisor training program, and for their efforts, they were awarded the 2023 Knowlton Excellence in Quality Award. Congratulations!
August 21, 2023
DSU alum moves on to nursing career
DSU alum moves on to nursing career. Life can take unexpected but exciting turns.
August 16, 2023
From one Madison to another
A journey that began in Madison, S.D., ultimately led Viana Mote to another Madison – Madison, Ala. A love of teaching and technology led Viana Mote to Dakota State. Sharing that passion with her students at James Clemens High School has earned her the Chiquita Marbury Technology Innovation Award after her first year of teaching there.
August 14, 2023
DSU Track to be named for alumnus Dan Beacom
The new track at Dakota State University in Madison will be named “The Dan Beacom Track Complex” after alumnus Dan Beacom, who passed away on May 24, 2023.
August 9, 2023
From Teacher's aide to teacher
South Dakota has developed an apprenticeship program for paraprofessionals who have not completed their teaching degree. Through the Teacher Apprenticeship Pathway, paraprofessionals will be able to take classes to complete their degrees while remaining in the classroom. Those seeking to earn elementary and special education degrees will complete their courses through DSU.
July 28, 2023
DSU inspires through US Cyber Team
Students and alumni from Dakota State University are competing against the world as members of the U.S. Cyber Team.
July 27, 2023
DSU President Moderates AI Briefing for All Senators
President Griffiths served as the moderator for an all-Senate briefing on AI technology on July 26. This educational event will help leaders and policy makers better understand this changing technology that will impact the world.
July 24, 2023
DSU adds Intro to Esports course
Dakota State is launching an Introduction to Esports course for the fall semester. The course, open to all students, is online and structured around independent research and lectures, according to Instructor and DSU Esports Coach Andy Roland.
July 19, 2023
Rizi awarded amateur radio scholarship
Tony Rizi is passionate about exploring the world of amateur radio and digital communications and inspiring and shaping the future of wireless technology.
July 18, 2023
DSU announces spring 2023 graduates
Dakota State University in Madison, S.D. celebrates spring 2023 graduates. The 279 graduates earned a total of 357 degrees, 36 associate degrees, 216 baccalaureate degrees, 42 master’s degrees and 9 earned doctoral degrees. Additionally, 52 undergraduate certificates and 2 graduate certificates were earned.
July 17, 2023
DSU FBLA members place at nationals
Five of the six DSU students who competed at the 2023 FBLA National Leadership Conference placed in the top 10.
July 13, 2023
Finding the Future
Brenna Smith, a veteran, and mother of two, has returned to school to earn a degree in Business Administration Technology through DSU's online programming.
July 10, 2023
From science student to Science Steve
Watermelon and toilet paper are just a couple of the props used by Science Steve — technically Steven Rokusek, an education specialist with South Dakota Public Broadcasting — to teach fun and humorous lessons about physics, chemistry, anatomy, and more.
July 6, 2023
Digital Arts & Design grad finds success as entrepreneur
After graduating from DSU in 2013, Martin spent a brief period overseas playing basketball. But he ultimately returned to Atlanta, where he started his own business, EYA Sports, a multi-million-dollar basketball training program.
June 28, 2023
DSU students named National Cyber Scholars
In addition to taking their cutting-edge academic courses, many take advantage of DSU’s encouraging environment to build on that foundation and participate in additional learning and scholarship opportunities.
June 27, 2023
DSU Wins Gold in 44th Annual Telly Awards
Dakota State University (DSU) has earned a gold honor from The 44th Annual Telly Awards for its International Cybersecurity Challenge video.
June 26, 2023
DSU updates agreement with Cryptologic University
Dakota State University and the National Security Agency’s National Cryptologic University (NCU) have entered into an articulation agreement which was approved at the March 2023 Board of Regents’ meeting. This agreement refines a 2015 partnership between the two entities.
June 23, 2023
Alumnus finds success in academia
DSU alumnus Dr. Rajeev Bukralia has developed a variety of programs and organizations related to data science in academia.
June 23, 2023
DSU organizations honored by BOR
The South Dakota Board of Regents (BOR) honored three Dakota State University organizations at the June meeting.