Trojan Days celebrates DSU traditions, community, and Trojan pride
October 14, 2026
MADISON, S.D. — Dakota State University celebrated a week of Trojan pride, community service, and cherished traditions during Trojan Days 2026, held Oct. 5-10. The annual Homecoming celebration brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and the Madison community for a full schedule of activities, athletic events, and opportunities to give back.
The festivities began Monday with a Colorful Kickoff featuring tie-dyeing and color dodgeball, along with women's soccer and junior varsity volleyball contests. Throughout the week, students enjoyed activities designed to build school spirit, including Stuff-a-Stuff, tote bag decorating, and the Traveling Trojan scavenger hunt.
DSU's 2026 Homecoming King and Queen Amelie Steins and Jon Eben.
Tuesday's highlights included the traditional Homecoming coronation ceremony and a performance by comedic magician Derek Hughes at the Dakota Prairie Playhouse.
Wednesday focused on education as DSU hosted its annual Educators Rising Learning Expo. A record crowd of middle and high school students from across South Dakota visited campus to explore teaching careers through interactive sessions, conversations with educators, and presentations highlighting the profession's impact.
Becky Haenfler, the 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, speaks at the Educators Rising event.
Becky Haenfler, the 2026 South Dakota Teacher of the Year, delivered the keynote presentation, while DSU faculty and students introduced participants to educational opportunities and career pathways.
One of the week's most meaningful traditions took place Thursday with Trojans Give Back, DSU's annual day of service and philanthropy. Students, faculty, and staff participated in service projects supporting local organizations and community needs, demonstrating the university's commitment to making a positive difference beyond campus.
The day also featured fundraising activities, including Donuts for Donations and a virtual giving campaign supporting Champion Scholarships, which help provide educational opportunities for DSU students.
“Trojans Give Back is our annual day of service, answering the call to serve our communities and one another,” said DSU President John Ballard. “At Dakota State, answering that call can take many forms. It can mean giving your time, sharing your talents, serving your community, or helping create an opportunity for somebody else.”
Friday's schedule welcomed alumni back to Madison for a series of gatherings and celebrations. Events included the alumni and faculty picnic, DSU Alumni Golf Tournament, Trojans Together Social, and Alumni Baseball Game. The university also celebrated its athletic heritage during the Athletics Hall of Fame ceremony and an evening social.
The celebration reached its traditional finale Saturday with the Community Center Color Run, Homecoming parade, tailgating, and football.
Homecoming parade marshal Carlos Cornay '82 takes part in the parade.
DSU alumni Carlos Cornay '82 and Julie Cornay '80 served as marshals for the 2026 Homecoming Parade. The couple's longstanding connections to the university, including Carlos' role in helping establish the Trojan Monogram Club, made them fitting representatives of the Trojan spirit.
The parade brought students, alumni, campus organizations, and community members together in downtown Madison for one of the week's most recognizable traditions.
The festivities concluded with a closely contested football game against Dickinson State University at Brian Kern Family Stadium on Blankley Field.
The No. 23-ranked Trojans battled windy conditions and rallied from a halftime deficit to take a 19-14 lead in the fourth quarter. Running back Trajan Davis scored two rushing touchdowns, while kicker Malte Hamann added two field goals. However, Dickinson State scored a touchdown with 53 seconds remaining to secure a narrow 20-19 victory.
From community service and educational outreach to alumni reunions and athletic competition, Trojan Days 2026 celebrated the traditions, connections, and shared experiences that bring the Dakota State community together year after year.