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Western Dakota Tech's
Major Gifts Campaign

A Message from the Chairs

It is truly our privilege and honor to serve as Campaign Chairs of Western Dakota Tech’s first-ever major gifts campaign.  We have witnessed the evolution of WDT over the past 37 years and know the impact the school has had on western South Dakota.  We are also increasingly aware of the accelerating rate of technological change.  WDT must seek new funding sources to continue to provide current, high-quality training.  State government and students alone can no longer support the increasing cost of technical currency necessary for quality education.

Many of our collegues and friends have attended WDT to enhance professional skills, prepare for a career change, or to receive an Associate’s degree.  WDT has trained, and continues to train, much of this region’s skilled workforce.  WDT remains affordable and accessible to even the most remote areas of western South Dakota.

Campaign Initiatives:

Supporting Economic Development
• As a full regional partner in economic development, WDT must be able to add new or expanded programs that meet business and industry needs within months rather than years. With a Rapid Response Fund, WDT wil be able to react in real-time to emerging opportunities for economic development.

Building Dynamic Teaching and Learning Tools
• Reduction in state resources has hindered WDT ’s ability to replace equipment, add new technology, and adapt the facilities to newer educational strategies.  Your support will ensure that WDT’s learning tools, professional staff, and facilities keep up with the pace of change.

Developing 21st Century Learners
• Currently, 85% of WDT’s students require financial assistance; yet many other do not qualify.  WDT is seeking support to expand student scholarship and loan programs for learners of all ages and backgrounds.

Western Dakota Tech has responded to the region’s changing educational, cultural, and economic needs.  WDT remains the most affordable choice for higher education in the community.  We must now look to those it serves – individuals, alumni, and corporations – and area foundations to ensure that its high level of service continues.

Your investment is truly an investment in the people, economic development, and quality of life of the entire region.

Campaign Chairs: Cheryl Chapman, P.E., Pete Cappa, Carolyn Mollers


Honorary Chairs: C. Eddie Clay, Carole Hillard, Mary Loucks