���ϳԹ���

"Think like a cow.” It’s a simple concept Mary Duvall learned growing up on her family’s Hermosa ranch that has had a powerful impact on her career as a communicator, lobbyist and legislator.

A banquet speaker Jerry Schmitz listened to during a 1980 co-op annual meeting changed the trajectory of his farming career and soybean production across South Dakota.

Edgar McFadden, breeder of the aptly named wheat variety “Hope,” will be honored at a public ceremony and reception on Saturday, Aug. 29. The ceremony will celebrate the dedication of a new art sculpture, H.O.P.E. a Helix of Resilience: The Life, Journey & Legacy of Edgar S. McFadden.

Sheep have been a part of nearly every chapter of Patty DeZeeuw’s life — first as a Custer County 4-H member, then as a South Dakota State University wool judge. And since 1979, she and her husband, Rufus, have raised purebred Suffolk sheep.

When Lucas Dao arrived in South Dakota for his pharmacy residency, he brought more than a desire to grow his skills with him. He also brought a lifelong love of connecting with people, a passion for community pharmacy, a gaming setup and a newly adopted cat.

For nearly two decades, South Dakota State University’s Woodbine Productions series has quietly brought remarkable artists to Brookings — performances more often found in major metropolitan centers than on the prairie. The 2026-27 season may be one of its most extraordinary yet.

The experiences that shape students at South Dakota State University don't always end when they leave campus. Some become lasting connections to the university and to the people who shared those experiences with them.

Consider this scenario: An SDSU student taking a history course is reading about the American Revolution, and something doesn’t make sense. Instead of leaving the course to search online or ask a general artificial intelligence chatbot, the student can turn to an AI tutor already embedded in the class. The tool can help summarize the reading, identify key points or talk through questions in a way that is specific to the course material.

South Dakota State University is ready to welcome back students for move-in weekend starting Friday, Aug. 21.

South Dakota State University colleges of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and Education and Human Sciences honor Patty DeZeeuw, Elkton; Mary Duvall, Pierre; Jerry Schmitz, Vermillion; and Kevin Scott, Valley Springs; with the 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community Award.