FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

September 4, 2025

Contact: Josie Harms

Governor Rhoden Celebrates Record-Breaking Build Dakota Awards Strengthens South Dakota’s Future Workforce

PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden celebrated the awarding of 630 new Build Dakota Scholarships for the 2025–2026 academic year, the highest number in the program’s history. These recipients make up Cohort 11, representing the 11th year of scholarship awards through the Build Dakota program. You can find the complete list of recipients here.

“Build Dakota is more than a scholarship program; it is a long-term investment in the future of South Dakota. These awards represent a strategic commitment to equip learners with the skills to thrive in high-demand industries while supporting the growth and competitiveness of our state’s economy,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “We are building stronger communities by connecting students with meaningful career paths and aligning them with workforce needs.”

Established in 2015, the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund was created through an initial $50 million investment from both philanthropist T. Denny Sanford and the Daugaard Administration. Since its inception, the program has awarded more than 4,500 full-ride scholarships to students pursuing degrees in high-demand fields and establishing rewarding careers in healthcare, construction, law enforcement, advanced manufacturing, agriculture, and information technology. The program plays a vital role in addressing South Dakota’s workforce needs by equipping students with the technical skills essential to the state’s continued economic growth.

“This scholarship is a once in a lifetime opportunity for so many students,” said Deni Martin, Program Director of the Build Dakota Scholarship. “For more than a decade, we’ve worked alongside the four technical colleges – and with countless industry partners – to offer millions of dollars in scholarships. It’s neat to zoom out and think of the big picture effect we’re having on the workforce. But it’s also important to remember that for each and every person on this list, the Build Dakota Scholarship is a life-changing path to an impactful career.”

The 2025–2026 cohort reflects the strength of South Dakota’s public-private partnerships. This year, 92 percent of recipients are co-sponsored by businesses and organizations across the state. To date, industry partners have committed more than $21 million by partnering on scholarships, demonstrating a shared and growing investment in building a skilled and sustainable workforce.

According to recent data from the South Dakota Board of Technical Education, 98 to 100 percent of graduates from the state’s four technical colleges are employed or continuing their education, and nearly 90 percent of those employed are working in South Dakota. Build Dakota recipients further that impact by committing to live and work in the state for at least three years, strengthening local industries and communities.

Approximately 6 percent of the 630 scholarships awarded were granted to out-of-state students, many from neighboring Midwest states, who have committed to live and work in South Dakota following graduation. This approach not only strengthens the state’s talent pipeline but also expands our long-term economic reach by attracting new residents who are eager to grow their careers and contribute to South Dakota’s economy.

Businesses, students, and community leaders can learn more about the Build Dakota Scholarship program by visiting www.BuildDakotaScholarships.com. Details on eligibility, Cohort 12 (2026) programs, and how to become an industry partner are available online.

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