What began as two students finding their way at Mines grew into a marriage, a family and a shared commitment to give other students the chance to find their own path.
Impact Stories
Hardrocker lives transformed through support and opportunityCelebrating the Heart of Giving
Every act of generosity strengthens the Hardrocker community. In these Stories of Impact, you’ll meet alumni, donors, and friends whose gifts—whether financial support, volunteer service, or shared expertise—are creating opportunities and shaping futures at South Dakota Mines. Their commitment fuels possibility, inspires others, and shows the many ways Hardrockers make a lasting difference.
Latest Story
First Came Mines. Then Came Marriage. Now They’re Giving Back.
What began as two students finding their way at Mines grew into a marriage, a family and a shared commitment to give other students the chance to find their own path.
All Impact Stories
What We Built Along The Way
Four years ago, Carson Daly joined CAMP looking for a chance to build things. Along the way, he built confidence, leadership skills, and friendships that made Mines feel like home.
The Long Way Home
After 30 years of wondering where he belonged, Marcus Nelson found a home and a new beginning at South Dakota Mines. A scholarship helped turn his doubts into possibility.
Postcard From a Student: Macy Sager
“When I decided I wanted to become a geologist, this is exactly what I pictured: adventure, travel, and education all coming together.”
Engineering the Future: Philanthropy Powers the Leslie A. Rose Department of Mechanical Engineering
On any given day, the Leslie A. Rose Department of Mechanical Engineering is buzzing with activity. Students sketch designs, build prototypes, run tests, and present their work to industry partners. Behind this energy is something less visible but absolutely essential: philanthropy.
Giving Back with Heart: Dr. Michael Koch’s Impact at Mines
When Dr. Michael Koch (MinE 80) established his first endowed scholarship at South Dakota Mines, he wasn’t sure what to expect. Giving at that level felt like a leap.
A Legacy of Love and Loyalty: Belden Family Helps Preserve M Hill Tradition
When Bill Belden returned to South Dakota Mines this spring for his 50-year class reunion, it wasn’t just a trip down memory lane—it was a celebration of enduring legacies.
Building the Future: A Collaborative Effort to Inspire the Next Generation of Mining Engineers
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.
Raising for Rockers Sees Another Successful Year for Student Support
The third annual Raising for Rockers giving day at South Dakota Mines saw another year of incredible generosity.
The Arch
Stories of Impact
Want a deeper look at the impact philanthropy makes at Mines? The Arch, our annual report, highlights the year’s most meaningful stories, milestones, and generosity in action. Dive in to see how donors like you are shaping possibilities for our students and campus.