DSU Student Organizations and Faculty Honored at Board of Regents Meeting

April 10, 2026

Dakota State University recognized outstanding student organizations and faculty members during the South Dakota Board of Regents meeting held on campus on April 2.

University leaders and the Board of Regents emphasized the vital role student organizations and faculty play in advancing DSU's mission by strengthening academic quality, fostering community, and providing opportunities for leadership, professional development, and student success.

Three student organizations were honored for their contributions to academic excellence, community service, and leadership.

The 2025 DSU Award for Academic Excellence was presented to Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). The organization was recognized for enhancing the academic environment by connecting classroom learning to real-world business experiences. FBLA members participated in state and regional leadership conferences, engaged in case competitions, and connected with industry professionals through guest speakers and networking opportunities. Their collaborative efforts, including fundraising events and organizational programming, further supported student engagement and academic success.

The 2025 DSU Award for Community Service was awarded to the CybHER Club for its continued outreach and impact beyond campus. The organization played a key role in supporting the expanding mission of the CybHER Institute, particularly through hands-on programming for K-12 students. A highlight of the year included a large-scale outreach event at Terry Redlin Elementary School in Sioux Falls, where CybHER volunteers led coding-based "rescue mission" activities for multiple groups of students. Their efforts helped deliver cybersecurity education to dozens of young learners while strengthening community partnerships.

The 2025 DSU Award for Organizational Leadership went to the TriBeta Biological Honor Society, which successfully rebuilt and expanded the organization following a leadership transition. TriBeta organized and led numerous STEM-focused events, including lab simulations, community programming, and educational camps. Their initiatives reached more than 335 students and families, demonstrating strong leadership in planning, communication, and execution while fostering interest in science.

In addition to the 2025 honorees, recipients of the 2024 DSU student organization awards were also announced due to prior scheduling conflicts. TriBeta Biological Honor Society received the 2024 Academic Excellence Award, Pi Beta Kappa was recognized for Community Service, and the CybHER Club earned the Organizational Leadership Award.

The meeting also highlighted faculty excellence, with several awards recognizing outstanding contributions to teaching, research, service, and mentorship.

Dr. Alex Dececchi, assistant professor of biology, received the Merrill Hunter Award for Excellence in Research for his internationally recognized work in vertebrate paleontology and his mentorship of student researchers.

Dr. Viki Johnson, associate professor of sociology, was honored with the Earnest Teagarden Award for Excellence in Teaching for her innovative, student-centered instruction and strong record of student success.

Dr. Kevin Smith, associate professor of mathematics education, received the DeWayne Mork Award for Excellence in Service for his extensive outreach efforts and dedication to student engagement across the region.

Dr. Kurt Kemper, professor of history, was recognized with the Alexander Davidson Award for Excellence in Advising and Mentorship for his leadership of the General Beadle Honors Program and his commitment to guiding student achievement.

Learn more about the faculty awards' namesakes and their legacy at DSU.

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