DSU Academic, Leadership and Athletics Honors

Each year at the DSU Annual Honors Banquet the following awards are given out:

  • Honors Graduates

    Baccalaureate degree graduates are eligible for three academic honors designations: Cum Laude, Magna Cum Laude, and Summa Cum Laude. Associate degree graduates are eligible for three academic honor designations, also: With Honors, With High Honors and With Highest Honors.

  • Lowry Scholar

    The designation "Lowry Scholar" honors students who exhibit outstanding scholarly involvement and leadership within their chosen program of study. The award derives its title from the name of DSU’s long-time president, V.A. Lowry, who devoted much of his life to creating an environment of academic excellence at this University.

  • College Student Leader

    The College Student Leader award is intended to honor students in good academic standing who also demonstrate outstanding leadership. Students are selected by each of the three academic colleges.

  • Outstanding DSU Artist

    This award is presented to a student with superior achievements in the DSU performing and/or studio arts. The nominations are endorsed by the fine arts faculty.

  • Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges

    Students chosen for membership in Who’s Who Among Students in American Universities and Colleges are recognized for exceptional academic accomplishment, leadership and extra-curricular activities, citizenship, service to the University, and potential for future achievement.

  • Student Employee of the Year

    The Student Employee of the Year award is held in conjunction with the Midwest Association of Student Employment Administrators. Nominations are sought from both on-campus and off-campus employers of DSU students, and selection is made by a three-member committee. The winner of the on-campus category is eligible to compete at the state, regional and national level.

  • Certificate of Merit

    Certificate of Merit honors are earned by campus organizations that sponsor and participate in numerous events or projects during the year and report them to the Student Activities Center staff.

  • Regental Award

    Each year the South Dakota Board of Regents recognizes student organizations on the six regental campuses for meritorious achievements in Academic Excellence, Community Service, and Organizational Leadership. Organizations on each campus receive these awards annually.

  • Campus Student Leaders

    Each year Dakota State honors students who have been very active on campus and who exemplify the highest degree of skills in management, communications, personal relationships, vital involvement and university accomplishments and who also have a cumulative GPA of at least 2.8.

  • Outstanding Male and Female Athlete of the Year

    The Athlete of the Year Awards are presented to outstanding athletes who have demonstrated excellence and leadership in their respective athletic field. The award selections are made by the coaching staff.

  • Dusty Andersen Memorial Award

    The Dusty Andersen Memorial Award is presented each year to an outstanding male basketball or baseball player who exhibits active participation in campus activities. The award is named for Dusty Andersen who was a letter-winner in both basketball and baseball at DSU from 1966 through 1969. In addition to his athletic involvement, Mr. Andersen was active as President of the Varsity Club and was a member of the Student Senate, the band, and the Physical Education Majors Club. Mr. Andersen died in an automobile accident on Homecoming in 1969.

  • Champions of Character

    This award is presented annually to student athletes who represent the NAIA five core character values of respect, servant leadership, integrity, sportsmanship, and responsibility.