Southeast Tech, foundation announce ‘NEXT’ fundraising campaign

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The Southeast Technical College Foundation has announced the details of its new fundraising effort, Campaign NEXT.

The $25 million campaign is broken into four goals that support capital projects, academic program growth, scholarships and increased access to education.

“The Foundation and Campaign NEXT offer essential support for Southeast Technical College to grow as a postsecondary institution, as well as in our mission to educate students for rewarding careers that meet the workforce needs of our region,” STC President Robert Griggs said.

In addition to the STC Foundation director, Stephen Williamson, three co-chairs have been named to spearhead the effort: Tony Nour, Mark Mickelson and Cynthia Mickelson.

“This campaign marks a new chapter for Southeast Tech,” said Nour, who is also the incoming president of the STC Foundation board. “Its benchmarks align closely with the strategic goals of the college, which will benefit students, employers, employees and the Sioux Falls region.”

Cynthia Mickleson, a former board member of the Sioux Falls School District, noted that scholarship opportunities and increased access to education are addressed in Campaign NEXT and can change lives.

“Nearly half of students in Sioux Falls elementary schools participate in the reduced-cost school lunch program,” Cynthia Mickelson said. “While the return on your investment at STC is high, the cost of tuition, books, fees and other program expenses can still leave graduates with additional debt when starting adult life.”

The campaign also supports academic programing through efforts such as proof-of-concept initiatives, competency-based education, summer education, dual enrollment and financial literacy.

“These efforts will ensure that STC continues to offer current, relevant and innovative education opportunities for students, while working closely with industry and other stakeholders to provide great employees,” Mark Mickelson said.

Campaign NEXT quietly kicked off in 2022, so many of the goals are partially completed.

“We are thrilled to already have momentum established in this campaign,” Williamson said. “With two years left, we will surely propel the campaign and STC into the future.”

To learn more about the campaign, click here.

Individuals interested in donating may pledge online here.