When Jeremy Feist (CE 2017) packed his bags for Seattle after graduation, he was eager to test himself on some of the biggest structural engineering projects in the country.
Alumni Stories
Hardrockers transforming the world they live in.Where Hardrocker Journeys Continue
Our alumni carry the Hardrocker spirit into industries, communities, and corners of the world where Mines’ influence continues to grow. Here, we celebrate their achievements, their leadership, and the ways they give back—lifting up students, strengthening the university, and embodying the grit and curiosity that define our community. Explore the stories that showcase what it truly means to be a Hardrocker for life.
Latest Story
From Skyscrapers to Community Roots: Civil Engineering Alum Jeremy Feist Returns to South Dakota
When Jeremy Feist (CE 2017) packed his bags for Seattle after graduation, he was eager to test himself on some of the biggest structural engineering projects in the country.
All Alumni Stories
Still at Home at Mines: A Lifetime of Memories and Transitions
At 96 years old, Lowery Smith (GeolE 51) has lived through nearly a century of change, but some things remain constant. When he returned to South Dakota Mines for the all-school reunion this summer, he was reminded that while buildings may shift and faces come and go, Mines still feels like home.
Dan Carlson: A Lifelong Connection, A Lasting Impact
When Dan Carlson (ChE 77) pulled into Rapid City for this year’s All-School Reunion, it marked a special milestone—50 years since attending his very first.
From Blacksmithing to the Battlefield: Mines Alum Finds Purpose in Leadership, Service, and Grit
When Cody Marshall (MetE 2023) arrived at South Dakota Mines in spring 2019, he already knew how to forge steel—but he was about to learn how to forge something even stronger: leadership.
From Slide Rules to Silicone Valley: Donn Lobdell’s Journey from Mines to Medical Innovation
The slide rule came with bragging rights—and a story Donn Lobdell (ME 58) would never forget.
Alumni Duo Rekindles the Art of Debate at South Dakota Mines
When Randy Parcel (MineE 67) and Marv Truhe (ME 67) met at South Dakota Mines over 60 years ago, they couldn’t have imagined that their bond—first forged in a debate team meeting and strengthened through lifelong friendship—would one day rekindle a tradition that could shape generations of engineers and scientists to come.
Breaking Barriers, Building Legacies: Linda Rausch Reflects on 50 Years Since Mines
When Linda Rausch (ChemE 75) arrived on the South Dakota Mines campus, she didn’t know anyone—but that didn’t last long. Like so many others, she quickly found her footing in the close-knit community of students who shared not just classes but aspirations.
A Life Shaped by South Dakota Mines: From Students to Lifelong Supporters
For Scott (ME 96) and Abbie (IE 96) Wickersham, South Dakota Mines isn’t just an alma mater—it’s the foundation of their personal and professional lives.
From South Dakota Mines to the NFL: Brandon Cruse’s Journey from Engineer to Referee
One thing that holds true for every South Dakota Mines graduate is knowing that your degree can take you anywhere and open doors you never thought possible. From government and military engineering contracts to exploring the depths of the Earth, anything is possible for South Dakota Mines graduates – even becoming a National Football League (NFL) referee.
The Hardrock
Want even more alumni news, features, and campus updates? Explore The Hardrock, our alumni magazine, for in-depth stories that highlight the people, progress, and pride that shape the Mines community. Dive in and stay connected with fellow Hardrockers around the world.