BROOKINGS, S.D. (9-29-26) — South Dakota State University President Barry Dunn has bestowed Presidential Medallions upon three SDSU supporters — Mark Luecke, Jeff Lautt and Brenda Forman — whose work has positively impacted the university, agriculture and economic development in the state.
The SDSU Presidential Medallion is awarded to very select individuals who have significantly contributed toward the advancement and benefit of South Dakota State University. The medallion presentation was made during SDSU’s Sept. 26 football game against Eastern Illinois.
The Presidential Medallion is the highest symbol of esteem and appreciation for one’s personal efforts that have been generous and significant in the progress of South Dakota State.
Luecke is the managing director and CEO of South Dakota Innovation Partners and has dedicated his career to providing access to venture capital to commercialize university research. His work has supported multiple startups that have positively impacted the agriculture economy in South Dakota.
Lautt is an SDSU graduate and chief operating officer at POET. He is a strong supporter of the bioproducts industry and has led efforts to advance research, spark innovation and further economic development efforts. He is an advocate for public-private partnerships that shape the bio-ag economy.
Forman a distinguished alum and staunch supporter of SDSU, promoting its research and extension efforts across the state of South Dakota. She is president of Ag Unity and the executive director of the South Dakota Association of Cooperatives, where her career has spanned 29 years. Her advocacy work across the state and in the legislature have positively shaped SDSU.
“For a public university to achieve high levels of excellence, it requires the dedicated commitment of many hands and many hearts. Your personal labors have been singular, generous and significant in the progress of South Dakota State University. It is therefore, with sincere thanks, that we recognize you with the highest symbol of the university’s great esteem and deep appreciation,” the presidential citations says.
About South Dakota State University
Founded in 1881, South Dakota State University is the state’s Morrill Act land-grant institution as well as its largest, most comprehensive school of higher education. SDSU confers degrees from seven different colleges representing more than 230 majors, minors and specializations. The institution also offers 39 master’s degree programs, 17 Ph.D. and two professional programs.
The work of the university is carried out on a residential campus in Brookings, at sites in Sioux Falls, Pierre and Rapid City, and through Extension offices and Agricultural Experiment Station research sites across the state. SDSU’s research expenditures for the 2025 fiscal year were more than $94 million. SDSU has a Doctoral University: High Research Activity designation on The Carnegie Classification of Institutions of Higher Education.
For more information: SDSU News • www.sdstate.edu
— From SDSU University Marketing and Communications
