South Dakota Mines will host a ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Rich and Trudy Wells Veterans Resource Center on Monday, Aug. 26. The renovation is part of the Surbeck Center expansion project, giving students better access to much needed resources and facilities.
Rich (ChE 82) and Trudy (ChE 84) Wells recently donated $1 million to renovate the Veterans Resource Center. The expansion has been a much-needed project to support New Heights: The Campaign for South Dakota Mines as efforts continue to raise money for the expansion of the Surbeck Center.
“We are very excited to open the doors on the Rich and Trudy Wells Veterans Resource Center right as school begins for the 2024-25 school year,” said the center’s Director Derek Flom. “We will now be able to significantly expand our programs and resources, providing even more students with the opportunities they need to succeed. We are incredibly grateful to our donors for their unwavering support and commitment to our mission.”
The newly remodeled Veterans Resource Center will continue to be a critical resource for veteran students, offering services such as tutoring in math and writing, job and scholarship search assistance, and resume and cover letter writing. It will also provide a comfortable space for students to study, as well as connect with other veterans on campus.
Both Rich and Trudy Wells, as well as Deanna Lien, made considerable donations to see the facility updated as part of the Surbeck Center expansion.
“We are honored to support the renovation of the Veterans Resource Center,” Rich Wells said. “Our veterans have sacrificed so much for our country, and it is our duty to provide them with the resources they need to succeed as they transition into civilian life. This center is a vital part of our community, and we are proud to contribute to its success.” The ribbon cutting will be held on Monday, Aug. 26 at 1 p.m. on the lower level of the Surbeck Center. Light refreshments will be served.