RAPID CITY, S.D. – South Dakota Mines Athletics has announced the Rise of the Rockers Scholarship Campaign, an initiative focused on strengthening the university's ability to recruit, retain and graduate exceptional Hardrocker student-athletes. 

At South Dakota Mines, the top priority for every student-athlete is earning a degree. Competing in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference (RMAC) while pursuing rigorous STEM degrees requires an extraordinary commitment. Scholarship support is the single most important factor in helping student-athletes choose South Dakota Mines, remain here and successfully graduate.

"Our goal for Hardrocker Athletics is to be a point of pride for our former student-athletes, alumni and friends of South Dakota Mines," Director of Athletics David Crum said. "Through the Rise of the Rockers Scholarship Campaign, we're asking our Hardrocker family to make an impact by providing the scholarship support our student-athletes need to succeed at the highest level in the classroom and in competition.”

The Rise of the Rockers Scholarship Campaign directly supports hundreds of Hardrocker student-athletes. All gifts provide critical financial assistance and may be directed to the general scholarship fund or to a specific sport. The campaign calls on former student-athletes, alumni, donors and friends of South Dakota Mines to come together to help meet scholarship commitments and strengthen the Hardrocker student-athlete experience.

“Through the Rise of the Rockers Scholarship Campaign, we’re investing in the full success of our student-athletes — on the field, in the classroom and long after they graduate,” said South Dakota Mines President Brian Tande, Ph.D. “This effort brings our community together to elevate Hardrocker Athletics while attracting and preparing the next generation of STEM leaders who will thrive in competition, in their studies and in their careers.”

Collective support is essential to ensure Hardrocker student-athletes have the resources they need to graduate, compete at a high level in the RMAC and represent South Dakota Mines with pride.

To support the Rise of the Rockers Scholarship Campaign, visit GoRockers.com and click “Rise of the Rockers” at the top of the page to learn more and make a gift. Checks may also be mailed to the Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement, with additional details available on the campaign page.