SDSU Connect expands university's mission to Sioux Falls

In 2023, SDSU Connect continued to play a pivotal role in advancing South Dakota State University's land-grant mission, weaving a story of impactful engagements within South Dakota’s fastest growing business and educational community.

SDSU Connect opened its doors to 1,500 Sioux Falls middle school students, fostering academic exploration through campus visits and providing opportunities to better understand SDSU’s land-grant mission and why access to higher education is so important. As the initiative sets its sights on the future, plans are underway to host an even larger group of 1,800 eighth graders in 2024, demonstrating a proactive approach to anticipating and accommodating growth.

SDSU Connect also collaborated with the Ness School of Management and Economics to establish an outpost at Startup Sioux Falls, the heart of the city's entrepreneurial spirit. The strategic partnership intensified SDSU Connect’s presence in downtown Sioux Falls and blossomed into numerous academic events and social gatherings, forming bridges between Sioux Falls residents and the university. Startup Sioux Falls, a hub for innovation, empowered founders and startups, aligning with SDSU Connect's mission to expand resources and foster growth in businesses.

SDSU Connect strategically awarded $500,000 in challenge grants, coming from internal funds to provide opportunities for strategic connectivity. Tailored to bolster recruitment, retention and branding efforts within Sioux Falls, this financial infusion accentuated SDSU's unique positioning in the region, providing the necessary resources to thrive.

Government and community engagements became a cornerstone of SDSU Connect's narrative in 2023. Actively connecting with Sioux Falls area legislators, facilitating visits from key officials and engaging with leaders across sectors, the initiative fostered essential relationships and dialogues. These engagements exemplified a commitment to being an integral part of the community fabric.

SDSU Connect’s educational outreach included coordinating student field trips, placing professors in Advanced Placement high school classrooms and connecting President Barry Dunn with prominent Sioux Falls businesses. These efforts not only enriched educational experiences but also provided valuable insights into the city's economic landscape, including major projects and collaborations with industry leaders like Amazon.

SDSU's primary purpose is to educate and train the next generation of leaders and support South Dakota’s workforce needs. SDSU Connect played a pivotal role in fostering internship opportunities and workforce connections between students and Sioux Falls businesses. This emphasis on aligning education with the city's economic needs positioned SDSU as a crucial player in shaping the future workforce.

Finally, SDSU supported the Wokini Initiative by engaging in the Sioux Falls School District Native American Honoring Ceremony and funding a Whittier Middle School ribbon skirt makers event, showcasing a commitment to cultural integration within educational endeavors.

SDSU Connect's multifaceted approach in 2023 became a narrative of commitment and collaboration. By solidifying partnerships, enhancing educational experiences and strengthening ties between academia, industry and local government, SDSU Connect furthered South Dakota State University's dedication to the Sioux Falls community.