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South Dakota State University’s two largest relationship-building partners have consolidated into one organization, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

The SDSU Alumni Association and SDSU Foundation have served the university for decades as complementary but separate organizations. The alumni association was formed in 1889; the foundation was created in 1945.

The idea of a future consolidation was helped along when the two moved into the same building with the expansion of the Lohr Building in 2017. It gained momentum after the $604 million Bold & Blue comprehensive campaign wrapped up in 2024. The respective boards voted unanimously to become the SDSU Alumni & Foundation at a joint meeting last October.

“We have a long track record of supporting the university and building and maintaining relationships with alumni, friends and business partners, and this new organization will embrace that history and those traditions,” said Steve Erpenbach, chief executive officer of the SDSU Alumni & Foundation. “This allows us to grow together strategically and do even more to support SDSU’s mission.”

“Had the organizations stayed separate, the SDSU Alumni Association would have continued in its role as a chief connector of the 92,113 living alumni,” said Andi Fouberg, who is the chief operating officer. “The SDSU Foundation would have orchestrated the university’s future comprehensive campaigns and embraced the role of proving the margin of excellence through philanthropic gifts.”

“All of that will continue,” Erpenbach said, “but under the banner of the SDSU Alumni & Foundation.”

The SDSU Alumni & Foundation has 55 full-time employees plus students that connect with alumni in the Jackrabbit Philanthropy Center.

The consolidation includes the , social media channels and a digital display at the corner of Eighth Street and Medary Avenue. The Lohr Building remains the location for the unified organization, with renovations currently underway to mark the historic shift.

Eighty-five individuals will serve on the board of trustees, a group of university advocates and supporters who provide expertise and strategic advice. A 15-member executive committee is comprised of trustees, President Barry Dunn and Vice President of Finance Mike Holbeck.