Dakota State University Foundation celebrates record-breaking success at DSUnite
May 7, 2025
Dakota State University Foundation hosted its annual DSUnite event on May 1, 2025, at the Sioux Falls Convention Center, welcoming more than 250 supporters and friends for an inspiring and impactful evening. Presented by First PREMIER Bank/PREMIER Bankcard, the event combined elegance with heartfelt purpose, raising a record-breaking $576,836 in support of student scholarships at Dakota State.
The business formal evening featured silent and live auctions, a raffle with four exclusive vacation packages, and moving stories from DSU students and alumni. The program included powerful video messages from students Houston Lunde, Lilli Mackley, and Angelina Capple, and remarks from Dr. Rebecca Hoey, who shared her personal journey into education and her motivation for establishing an endowment in honor of her parents. Student speaker Houston Lunde inspired the crowd with a compelling reflection on how scholarship support shaped his college experience, while alumnus Mark Stanislav Ph.D. ’22, joined remotely from Michigan to share why he continues to support DSU.
“The generosity we witnessed at DSUnite speaks volumes about our Trojan community,” said Jill Ruhd ‘07, senior director of philanthropy at the DSU Foundation. “It was an unforgettable evening that celebrated not just philanthropy, but the transformational impact it has on our students’ lives. I am deeply grateful for everyone who helped make it possible.”
Fundraising momentum was strong both leading up to and during the event, culminating in a record-breaking total. The evening was fueled by generous lead gifts, including two contributions of $100,000, three gifts of $50,000 and two additional gifts of $25,000. The remaining funds were raised through enthusiastic support of event sponsorships, live and silent auctions, and excitement surrounding the vacation raffle.
Dr. José-Marie Griffiths, President of Dakota State University, said, “DSUnite exemplifies the incredible spirit and vision of the DSU community. The support we received reflects our shared belief in the power of education, innovation, and opportunity. I am inspired and honored to lead a university backed by such dedicated advocates.”
The DSU Foundation extends its heartfelt thanks to all donors, sponsors, and attendees who made DSUnite 2025 a remarkable success. Every gift strengthens DSU’s mission and ensures future generations of Trojans can dream big and achieve more.
Save the date for DSUnite 2026—happening May 1st at the Canopy by Hilton in Downtown Sioux Falls! We’re excited to return to the casual wear format, a popular choice that brings a fun, comfortable energy to the night.