Employees Recognized at 2026 Longevity Reception

April 16, 2026

Dakota State University recognized 53 employees for their dedication and commitment at the annual Longevity Reception on April 15.

These individuals represent well over 700 years of service to Dakota State and the State of South Dakota, an average of more than 13 years per employee. The national average stay for an employee is about four years in the same job, making this an impressive accomplishment.

"People here today can look around and see not only their colleagues, but their friends," said Dr. Rebecca Hoey, provost and senior vice president for student and academic affairs at the event. "We are grateful for their service and the time, energy, and dedication to this institution."

The Human Resources Department also recognized retirees, including Jackie Acheson, Patti Beck, Dorine Bennett, Sue Carlson, Ellen Hoff, Deana Hueners-Nelson, Annette Miller, Chris Olson, and Michael Roach.

5 Years

Austin Babcock, Peter Britton, Erich Eischen, Nancy Gacke, Autumn Glanzer, John Hastings, Jackson Heiberger, Jenni Holm, Matthew Ingram, Megan Janke, Kyle Korman, Chase Opsahl, Erik Pederson, Madison Polzin, Deonte Randle, Betsy Schamber, and Hannah Viet.

10 Years

David De Jong, Beth Delzer, Brianna Mae Feldhaus, Lisa Fox, José-Marie Griffiths, Justin Jons, Jason Kearin, Bailee Matucha, Cindy Meyer, Kanthi Narukonda, Tom Nielsen, Mark Spanier, and David Stewart.

15 Years

Stacey Berry, Pat Engebretson, Aubrey Graham, Christine Nelson, Renae Spohn, Tyler Steele, and Andrea Tanner

20 Years

Laura Cross, Scott Klungseth, and Amy Veenhof

25 Years

Justin Blessinger, Jon Bonner, Shannon Bonner, James Booze, Omar El-Gayar, Marie Johnson, Thomas Jones, Alan Montgomery, Brent Tulloss, David Turner, and Kim Wermers

30 Years

Deana Hueners-Nelson

40 Years

Shelly Rawstern

Tags: All News The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences College of Business & Information Systems College of Arts & Sciences College of Education & Human Performance