New Heights Campaign Strengthens Academic Excellence, Fuels Next Generation of Engineers

Strong programs produce strong engineers, and at South Dakota Mines, that strength has been amplified through nearly $40 million raised and dedicated to programming that directly enhances student success and innovation.

The $36.8 million was part of the $120 million raised through the university's Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement (CARA) New Heights Campaign, a comprehensive fundraising effort focused on expanding opportunities for students, advancing academic excellence, and strengthening the future of Mines through strategic investments in programs, people and infrastructure.

These targeted investments are equipping faculty and students with modern tools, upgraded labs and expanded resources, creating a dynamic environment for hands-on learning, research and real-world problem solving.

“By supporting innovation tied to student success, donors are elevating the daily educational experience,” said Pierre Larochelle, Ph.D., head of the Leslie A. Rose Department of Mechanical Engineering. “These investments create an environment built for discovery, collaboration and impact.”

In the Leslie A. Rose Department of Mechanical Engineering, philanthropy is central to the student experience. From scholarships and lab spaces to mentorship and research opportunities, donor support touches nearly every aspect of learning.

"The New Heights Campaign was never just about a number,” said Marc Vailliancourt, CARA chief executive officer. “It was about what that number makes possible - students who graduate better prepared, faculty who can push boundaries and a university that keeps pace with the demands of the industries we serve."

Students say the emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning sets Mines apart. In their first year, students gain practical experience designing, building and testing in specialized labs and fabrication spaces, developing skills that translate directly into the workforce.

“The main reason I chose mechanical engineering at Mines was the emphasis on hands-on, project-based learning,” said Samantha Winker, a senior mechanical engineering major. “At another program, I might learn similar material in the classroom, but the opportunity to develop practical skills here is unique. From the very beginning, even as a freshman, we’re working on projects and gaining real experience that puts us ahead of other programs.”

Philanthropy is also strengthening the academic foundation through endowed faculty positions, which help attract and retain top-tier educators and researchers. These roles bring additional resources into the classroom and lab, advancing innovation in areas like energy systems and advanced manufacturing.

While large-scale gifts have driven significant advancements, every contribution plays a role in strengthening academic programs across all departments. Together, these investments are ensuring Mines remains at the forefront of science and engineering education.

"What we built through New Heights is a foundation for what comes next,” Vaillancourt said. “The investments made in programs, people, and facilities will compound over time, and so will the impact on every student who walks through our doors."