South Dakota School of Mines Raises Record $120M

The university's recent fundraising campaign exceeded its goal by over $20 million.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

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The South Dakota School of Mines in Rapid City announced that its recent fundraising campaign brought in nearly $120 million from over 6,400 donors, exceeding its original $100 million goal. The funds will go towards the construction of the Nucor building, an addition to the student center, and scholarship programs.

Why it matters

This record-breaking fundraising campaign demonstrates the strong support and investment the local community and alumni have in the School of Mines and its mission. The additional funding will allow the university to expand its facilities and provide more financial assistance to students, further strengthening its reputation as a top engineering and science institution.

The details

The South Dakota School of Mines' recent fundraising campaign raised $119.8 million, far exceeding its original $100 million goal. Over 6,400 donors contributed to the successful campaign, which will fund the construction of the new Nucor building, an addition to the student center, and expanded scholarship programs.

  • The fundraising campaign ran from 2023 to 2025.

The players

South Dakota School of Mines

A public university in Rapid City, South Dakota that specializes in engineering, science, and technology programs.

Brian Tande

The president of the South Dakota School of Mines.

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What they’re saying

“This is a foundation, not a finish line.”

— Brian Tande, President, South Dakota School of Mines (dakotanewsnetwork.com)

What’s next

The university plans to break ground on the new Nucor building and student center addition in the coming months, using the funds raised from the successful campaign.

The takeaway

The South Dakota School of Mines' record-breaking $120 million fundraising campaign demonstrates the strong community support and investment in the university's future, allowing it to expand its facilities and provide more scholarships to attract top students in engineering and science.