A Message from Your Alumni Association President

Hello, this is Chris Giles, the incoming President of the Dakota State University Alumni Association. I was asked to provide some material for this article so that everyone would have a little more information about me. Writing or talking about yourself has to be one of the most awkward things to do; nonetheless, I will give it a shot!

I grew up and attended grade school in Madison. After graduating from high school in Evanston, Wyoming. I eventually returned to Madison to attend Dakota State and play football for the Trojans. In 1989 I graduated with a degree in English for Information Systems and a minor in Business Administration. Following graduation I went to law school and received my law degree from the University of South Dakota.

From Vermillion I returned to Madison to practice law with the firm of Arneson, Issenhuth, & Gienapp. After four years of general practice, which involved quite a bit of criminal defense work, I decided to change sides and ran for the office of Lake County State's Attorney. Following a successful primary election and no opposition in the general election, I took over as Lake County State's Attorney in January, 1997. Now I try to balance a busy private practice with my duties as State's Attorney. It has turned out to be a job, that in spite of some long hours and stressful situations, I am really enjoying.

My wife, Karen (Ebeling) and I met at Dakota State during her freshman year. She is the elementary counselor for the Lake Central School District here in Madison. We have one son, Jacob, who will be two on October 23. We are both very active in many community organizations and the city parks and recreations activities. It is great to live in Madison and be able to stay involved in activities at Dakota State.

After having been on the Alumni Board for several years I look forward to serving as President. I would welcome any suggestions or comments you may have on how we can continue to keep the Alumni Association working successfully for its members and Dakota State University.