DSU to participate in statewide “605 Day” Scholarship Campaign
June 1, 2026
Dakota State University will join South Dakota’s public universities on June 5 for 605 Day: Funding Futures with Scholarships, a statewide initiative that celebrates South Dakota pride while supporting scholarship opportunities for students.
Inspired by South Dakota’s single area code, 605 Day brings together alumni, donors, and supporters from across the state and beyond to invest in higher education. Gifts made during the campaign support student scholarships, helping reduce financial barriers and expand opportunities for current and future students, many of which are first-generation.
“605 Day is proof that South Dakotans always show up for each other,” said Dalton Kleinschmidt, annual giving officer for Dakota State University. “Whether it’s a small gift or a major contribution, every dollar helps students stress less about finances and focus more on building their future.”
Throughout the day, Dakota State University will share stories highlighting the impact of scholarship support and invite alumni, donors, and friends of the university to participate by sharing their own experiences. The campaign represents a collaborative effort among South Dakota’s public universities to strengthen scholarship support and improve college affordability across the state.
“We’re proud to join universities across South Dakota in showing what can happen when people come together for students,” said Kleinschmidt. “605 Day is much more than a fundraiser; it’s a chance for alumni, friends and supporters to invest in the future of our students and make a real impact that lasts far beyond one day.”
To learn more or make a gift supporting student scholarships, visit TrojansUnite.org.
About 605 Day
Held each year on June 5, 605 Day celebrates South Dakota’s people, places and institutions that make the state unique. 605 Day: Funding Futures with Scholarships channels that spirit into a unified day of giving to benefit students at South Dakota’s public universities. Through this initiative, the state’s higher education community aims to build a tradition of philanthropy that supports student success and strengthens South Dakota’s future.