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Dakota State University Announces New Director of Development

Dakota State University has announced the hiring of Chris Giles as the Director of Development.

Giles is a 1989 graduate of Dakota State, with a Bachelor of Science degree in English for Information Systems. While a student at DSU, he participated in football for four years, serving as team captain his senior year; was on student senate; and served as a resident assistant in Richardson Hall. Remaining active with DSU after graduation, Giles was a board member for the Dakota State Alumni Association and served as its president from 1997-1999. He has also been a member of several campus committees, including his current seat on the Athletic Committee.

Receiving his law degree in 1992 from the University of South Dakota, Giles returned to Madison and entered private practice with the firm of Arneson, Issenhuth & Gienapp.  He was elected to the post of Lake County State’s Attorney in 1996.  In July of 1998 the position became full time.  He will have served as the State’s Attorney for eight and a half years at the time of his resignation at the end of this month to accept the position at Dakota State.

In announcing his hire, DSU President Dr. Doug Knowlton said, “I am extremely pleased that Chris is willing to join our team at DSU. Chris will bring a dedication to Dakota State, an energy, and a tie to the community that will help us meet our very aggressive fundraising and development goals. Chris’s leadership is another step on this ‘Journey Worth Taking’ vision for the future of DSU. I can’t wait to begin our work together.”
Among Giles’ duties as Director of Development will be serving as Chief Executive Officer for the DSU Foundation. Former DSU President Jerry Tunheim recently took the role as president of the Foundation.

“I am looking forward to working with the staff and administration at DSU to achieve the goals that have been set for the future,” stated Giles. “The opportunity to work with both Dr. Knowlton and Dr. Tunheim in a positive environment was something I could not pass up.  Dakota State has always been an important part of my life and I am very excited to start in this challenging position.”

Giles replaces Rick Smith who recently resigned to pursue outside business interests. He will begin at Dakota State July 1.