Dakota State University: Shaping Leaders and Innovators
Dakota State University (DSU), established in 1881 as a normal school, has a rich history of producing notable alumni who have made significant contributions in various fields. From education and medicine to politics and technology, DSU graduates have left their mark on South Dakota, the nation, and the world. This article explores the stories of some of DSU's most accomplished alumni, highlighting their achievements and the impact they have had on their respective fields.
Pioneers in Education
Dakota State University's legacy began as a teacher training school, and its impact on education is evident through the accomplishments of its alumni. Several individuals dedicated their lives to shaping young minds and advancing the field of education.
Genevieve Dorney: Dorney joined Eastern State Normal School (now DSU) in 1923 as an art professor. With a BS in Education and an MA in Art from Columbia University, she served as the advisor for the College Catholic Club and later became the Chairman of the Art Division. Dorney's dedication to the college spanned 42 years, leaving a lasting impression on her students. In 1966, The Trojan yearbook was dedicated to her, recognizing her service and impact on students' lives. President Laurence Flaum eulogized Dorney, emphasizing that she was irreplaceable and had given her all to the college.
Gertrude Gill: Another beloved founding educator, Gill began her career as an upper elementary school teacher in Sioux Falls before joining Eastern State Normal School in 1920. After teaching in Mt. Pleasant, MI, she returned to General Beadle State Teachers College as an Education Professor for 32 years. Gill founded the local chapter of Kappa Sigma Iota and was a member of the American Association of University Women (AAUW), further demonstrating her commitment to education and empowering women in higher education.
Stephanie Veltkamp’s grandmother, Arlene Johnson Hoek: 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.
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Leaders in Politics and Public Service
DSU alumni have also excelled in the realm of politics and public service, shaping policies and serving their communities.
Richard Barrett Lowe: Lowe's connection with Dakota State goes back to 1889, when his mother, Edna Beck Lowe, graduated from Madison State Normal School. Edna later taught music at DSU in the 1920s. Richard's accomplishments were diverse and impactful. During his senior year, he wrote and directed "Dacotah," believed to be the first full-length motion picture produced on a college campus. After graduation, Lowe became an educator and superintendent in several South Dakota districts. He later served as a commander in the Navy Reserve, where he initiated the "Stay in School" program and published the Occupational Handbook. His interest in island government led to appointments as governor of American Samoa (1953) and Guam (1956) by President Eisenhower.
Innovators in Healthcare
Dakota State University alumni have also made significant contributions to the field of healthcare, improving the well-being of individuals and communities.
Dr. Harold E. Kellogg: Kellogg attended the Normal School for one year in 1901 before pursuing a medical degree. He practiced medicine in Eastern South Dakota for thirty years and was known for his generosity, often providing free services to patients. His son, Dr. Kellogg, established a memorial fund in 1973 honoring his father's legacy.
Achievers in Arts and Culture
DSU alumni have also demonstrated their talents and creativity in the arts and culture, enriching society through their artistic expressions.
Read also: Explore SDSU Degrees
Danielle Kearin: A 2006 graduate, Kearin has maintained a strong connection with DSU and her mentor, Digital Arts Professor Tom Jones. This mentorship inspired her to pursue her passion for photography, leading to the establishment of her own business, Striped Banana, specializing in senior and sport portrait photography. Kearin's talent was recognized when she earned first place in the black-and-white category of the Brookings Art Council’s 46th annual Photography Exhibition.
Success in Athletics
Dakota State University's athletic programs have also produced notable alumni who have excelled in their respective sports.
Steve Fahlman: After graduation, Steve returned to his home state of Massachusetts and began to teach physical education. He overcame significant health challenges through a dedicated fitness program. Inspired by Dr. Lawrence Stifler's Health Management Resources program, Steve adopted a very low-calorie diet and intensive exercise regimen. Stair climbing became his primary method of balancing calories. In 1983, Steve placed 14th in the Empire State "Runup," surpassing numerous long-distance runners, including world-class marathoners.
Mentorship and Continued Engagement
The success stories of DSU alumni often highlight the importance of mentorship and continued engagement with the university. The relationships formed during their time at DSU have played a significant role in their personal and professional growth.
Dakota State University's commitment to providing a supportive and challenging environment has fostered the development of talented individuals who have gone on to achieve great things.
Read also: South Dakota State University Profile
Dakota State University Today
DSU continues to evolve and adapt to the changing needs of its students and the world. The university's dedication to academic excellence, innovation, and community engagement remains steadfast.
Dakota State University (DSU) is a public university in Madison, South Dakota, founded in 1881. Initially a teacher training school, DSU has expanded its focus to include technology and cybersecurity. DSU is recognized as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Information Assurance Education by the National Security Agency.
Academics: DSU offers a variety of undergraduate and graduate programs. The university launched an institutional repository named "Beadle Scholar" in August 2018. DSU also offers the National Science Foundation CyberCorps: Scholarship for Service program.
Enrollment: DSU has experienced significant enrollment growth.
Campus Life: Student housing consists of ten different buildings. The campus is home to the Karl Mundt Library. KDSU is a college campus radio station which broadcasts in the student union and online at kdsu.net.
Athletics: The Dakota State athletic teams are called the Trojans. Dakota State University teams have won 56 conference championships and produced 80 All-Americans (14 women, 66 men).
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