Why We Started. Why We Continue.
Our mission fuels every relationship, every initiative, and every step toward building a stronger alumni community.Welcome to the Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement
The Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement (CARA) is built on a rich history of Hardrocker pride, connection, and generosity. From our earliest alumni efforts to today’s comprehensive engagement and philanthropic initiatives, our mission has remained focused on strengthening South Dakota Mines and the people who call it home. Guided by our core values of integrity, service, and lifelong connection, we continue to honor our past while championing a vibrant future for Hardrockers everywhere.
The Chronicle
In October 1934
Professor Guy March, together with collegial alumni in the Black Hills area, formed the SDSM&T Alumni Association and published the first Hardrock magazine.
In 1954
The SDSM&T Endowment Association was chartered as a not-for-profit South Dakota corporation and was designated as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charitable organization by the Internal Revenue Service.
June 1960
The Alumni Association was incorporated as a non-profit corporation in the State of South Dakota and subsequently was granted 501(c)(3) status by the Internal Revenue Service.
In 1980
The SDSM&T Foundation evolved from the Endowment Association. The Foundation office opened and efforts were initiated to solicit funds for SDSM&T. At this time the Alumni Association contributed some 90% of its assets to the formation of the Foundation. Annual awards (Guy E. March medal, Distinguished Alumni, Outstanding Recent Graduates), the annual reunion of the 50-year graduates and an all-school reunion every five years are long-standing traditions organized by the Alumni Association and embraced by the family of alumni.
In 1994
The Arch was adopted as the official logo of the SDSM&T Foundation.
In 2000
The SDSM&T Foundation celebrated the successful completion of its first-ever capital campaign, VISION 2000, raising over $20 million for scholarships, faculty support, and department support. This campaign was followed by another, BUILDING THE DREAM, in 2012 resulting in an additional $50 million.
In 2015
The South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Foundation adopted SD Mines Foundation as an informal name for doing business.
On July 1, 2020
The SD Mines Foundation and the SDSM&T Alumni Association merged into a single, not-for-profit South Dakota Corporation entitled the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement (CARA).
What Drives Us
Mission
We promote the traditions, interests, influence and reputation South Dakota Mines among alumni and friends through meaningful engagement and by inspiring and stewarding philanthropy.
Vision
We will be a global network of alumni and friends who advance the prominence of South Dakota Mines.
Our Values
Integrity
We build trust by honoring our commitments with honesty and respect.
Excellence
We commit to consistently exceeding expectations and strive to achieve the highest standards.
collaboration
We work together, with the University, and with other stakeholders to achieve desired results.
Stewardship
We intentionally build quality relationships by delivering impact and resources.
community
We build community, honor traditions, and deepen connections.