STATE Stories

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Jeff Eckhoff, a 1982 sociology graduate and 2023 Distinguished Alumnus of South Dakota State University. From growing up on a farm near Hurley to becoming the Director of Planning and Development Services for the City of Sioux Falls, Jeff shares how his time at SDSU helped shape his career in community growth, economic development, and public service. He reflects on lessons he lear...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Dr. John ’11 and Alex (Hoffman) '11 Bisson, whose journey together began as student-athletes on the South Dakota State swim team. From their first impressions at practice to falling in love while on campus, their story is rooted in Jackrabbit pride. Now married, raising a family, and running Bisson Dental in Brookings, these STATE Sweethearts share how SDSU shaped their relationshi...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Steve Hildebrand, a 1986 SDSU graduate and 2010 Distinguished Alumnus, whose career spans presidential politics, community leadership, and philanthropy. From volunteering on George McGovern’s campaign as a student to serving on the national stage with leaders like Al Gore and Barack Obama, Steve shares how his experiences at SDSU shaped his path in public service. He also reflects ...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Rana DeBoer '95/M.S. '01, culture strategist, entrepreneur, and public speaker, whose career has been dedicated to unlocking human potential and building thriving workplaces. From her days as a track athlete at SDSU to her graduate studies in exercise science, Rana shares how her Jackrabbit experience shaped her passion for leadership, culture, and community. She reflects on mentor...

Welcome back, Jackrabbits! Season 2 of STATE Stories kicks off with hosts Andi Fouberg and Travis Jensen reflecting on the inspiring alumni stories featured in Season 1 while offering a couple of sneak peeks at what's ahead in Season 2. This season spotlights graduates making an impact in classrooms, boardrooms, communities, and beyond. Hear how Jackrabbits have built businesses as couples, transformed workplace culture, created op...

In this inspiring episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with two extraordinary SDSU nursing alumni, Erica DeBoer ‘97 and Maddie Fitch ‘23. Erica, Chief Nursing Officer at Sanford Health, and Maddie, a critical care nurse, share their journeys from students to professionals, highlighting the impact of SDSU and their experience in the Alumni Mentor Program. Hear how their mentor-mentee relationship developed, and their passion for he...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Jim Woster ‘62, a beloved South Dakota State University alum and a prominent figure in the state’s agricultural community. Jim shares memories from his time at SDSU, recalling lifelong friendships formed in Scoby Hall, his experiences with Hobo Day, and the leadership transition to Division I athletics. With humor and sincerity, Jim reflects on how his time at SDSU shaped him, emph...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with Kim Tyler, a 1982 graduate of South Dakota State University and former vice president of the alternative channel sales at the Kellogg Company. Kim reflects on her 31-year career at Kellogg and her role as co-chair of SDSU's historic Bold & Blue campaign, which raised over $604 million for the university. She shares personal stories from her time as a student-athlete, her deep c...

Join us on this exciting episode of STATE Stories as we sit down with Tyler Merriam '11, the voice behind South Dakota State University sports and the Associate Athletic Director of Communications. Tyler shares insights into his journey, beginning as a passionate student with a love for sports broadcasting, and how he became the leading voice for Jackrabbits fans. Tune in to hear Tyler's reflections on the ever-evolving landscape o...

In this episode of STATE Stories, we sit down with 1998 alum, Dr. Kevin Kessler. Kevin is the Director of Athletic Bands, directing the Pride of the Dakotas Marching Band, Pep Band, and Concert Band, and serves as Assistant Professor of Music. Kevin shares his journey from being a student in the Pride to leading the ensemble that has become a beloved symbol of Jackrabbit spirit. He talks about what makes the Pride so special, from ...