In the heart of South Dakota, a group of passionate mining professionals has come together with a shared vision: to create a space within the new state-of-the-art Nucor Mineral Industries Building that will not only support the next generation of engineers but also inspire them to excel in an industry critical to the world’s future. This effort, spearheaded by over 20 individuals, helped to transform the Nucor Mineral Industries Building at South Dakota Mines, a place designed to educate, encourage, and challenge the minds that will shape tomorrow’s mineral industries.
A New Home for the Next Generation
For decades, the second building, constructed in the 1960s, served as the home of the South Dakota Mines mining, metallurgical, and geology departments. But as time passed, it became clear that the aging facility was no longer up to the task of training students for an industry increasingly reliant on cutting-edge technology and innovation. The cramped classrooms and outdated facilities made it harder to attract top talent—both professors and students.
Tony (MinE 84) and Dulci Jensen (CSc 86) and John (MinE 77) and Jeane (CE 77) Hull, mining industry veterans and active alumni were among those who recognized the need for change. Over their 35+ years in the industry, they had seen firsthand the importance of having a well-equipped, inspiring space for the mining engineers and geologists of tomorrow. All four were keenly aware of the impact education had on their lives and careers and knew creating a new space for students in the mineral industry was no longer a wish but a dire need. So between the four of them they created the idea of the Next Generation Challenge with the goal to raise over a million dollars from their generation to ensure the Next Generation of students at Mines could thrive.
“South Dakota Mines provided us with a great education that enriched our lives and families. We want future generations to have that same opportunity,” John said.
Randy Parcel (MinE 67) agreed, noting that his education here was what led him to have a successful career in mining law. “It taught me the fundamentals about the business, and even though I never practiced engineering, it gave me the ability to represent my clients, many of whom had mining backgrounds.”
Collaboration at Its Core
As the vision for a new building began to take shape, it quickly became clear that it would take more than just a few individuals to make it happen. It would require the collaboration of alumni, industry professionals, the state of South Dakota, and educational leaders—each bringing their unique expertise and passion for the future of mining engineering.
This was the heart of the effort: the idea that this project was not just about a building, but about a larger community of people working together to solve a problem and meet a need. “We learned to work together as students, and that teamwork remains essential in our careers. The connections we built back then continue to play a key role in our success,” said Jeane, on behalf of the group.
The vision of creating a lasting impact on the next generation gained momentum. This collaboration extended beyond those directly connected to South Dakota Mines. The team reached out to people they knew in the industry to be involved and part of a solution.
“To see how successful that program has been, and with Tony helping to play an incredibly important part, I knew I wanted to make a significant contribution to [the building],” Randy said.
Susan (MinE 80) & Tim (ME 81) Dake, who also gave to the Next Generation Portal agreed, crediting the school and the Center for Alumni Relations and Advancement for bringing the opportunity forward to provide an opportunity for students.
“It really goes back to the camaraderie to make it happen for the next generation of students,” Susan said.
The Importance of the Next Generation Portal
The feature of the new building that recognizes the contribution of the Next Generation Challenge donors is the Next Generation Portal, an entrance to the building that symbolizes the opportunity and promise of a brighter future for mining students. This space was inspired by industry veterans who wanted to ensure that future generations of students would have access to modern, functional spaces where they could learn, collaborate, and innovate.
The idea behind the portal was to create a welcoming and modern space for students—a place where they would feel connected to the past while looking forward to the future. It is a place where students get together to work on problems, collaborate and gain inspiration. John, on behalf of the group, reflected that, “The portal is an entry to the next generation. It is meant to symbolize the transition into a new era for the mining industry—one full of opportunity and innovation.”
The portal represents more than just a physical entrance—it’s a symbol of hope and progress. “The theme is all about collaboration and providing the tools the next generation needs to succeed. We believe the mineral industries are critical for the future, and this building is a way to ensure that future generations have the space, support, and education they need to continue moving forward,” said one donor.
Tim and Susan agreed, adding that they hope the students really appreciate the impressive new building.
“You’re really a deer in the headlights during your first year,” Tim said. “Once you get into your major more and you get to learn more about what working in a first-class facility is like. It really gives students a good opportunity to not have to fiddle with old equipment and to focus on the work that they need to do.”
A Legacy of Giving
While the building itself stands as a testament to the hard work and dedication of countless individuals, it’s the collaboration among alumni, industry professionals, the State of South Dakota, and the university that truly made it possible. Each contribution—whether financial or personal—helped to bring this vision to life.
“The industry is facing a shortage of engineers, and attracting students to the field is becoming increasingly difficult,” Jeane noted. “But when students walk into this building, they’ll see something completely different. It’s bright, modern, and inspiring. It sends a message that the mining industry is a place of opportunity, innovation, and growth.”
“It’s just a different vibe than the old MI building,” Rob Hall, department head for Mining Engineering and Management, Geology and Geological Engineering. “We’ve got excitement, students are hanging out and studying, professors enjoy the new lab spaces and classrooms. I think it’s going to be transformational for our programs.”
“My hope is that number one they get the best possible education, but secondly, from a competitive standpoint, I know we have the opportunity to be as equal or better of a school for mining engineering graduates,” Randy said. “For somebody who’s thinking of a degree in mining engineering, this is the place to go.”
Donors to the Next Generation Portal
Clayr (MinE 77) & Betty Alexander
Lynn (MinE 80) & Nancy Owen Bell
Dennis P. Bryan (GeolE 70)
Justin & Alvina Burggraff
Susan (MinE 80) & Timothy (ME 81) Dake
Scott (MinE 90) & Lisa (ChemE 93) Durgin
Brian (IE 91) & Tami Fox
Jack (GeolE 85) & Diana Henris
John (MinE 77) & Jeane (CE 77) Hull
Creties (GeolE 83) & Betty Jenkins
Tony (MinE 84) & Dulci (CSc 86) Jensen
Kurt (MinE 78) & Norma Kost
Clark (MinE 75) & Mary Jo Moseley
Jill Dahme Nelson (MinE 82)
Randy Parcel (MinE 67) & Therese Kovach
Jerry (MinE 80) & Jean Pfarr
Rocky Pray (GeolE 85) & family
John D. (MinE 84) & Deborah Rathbun
Leo (MinE 72) & Deb Van Sambeek
Bill (MinE 78) & Mary Wallace
J.D. Wientjes (MinE 79)