For Gary and Kay Sandquist, their connection to Northern State University began long before they were born, and they've made sure their connection continues for generations to come through their endowment gifts.
Kay attended classes at Northern, Gary is a second-generation Northern State alum, graduating in 1966 and his mother Avis, graduated in 1928. Gary fondly remembers his time at NSU. “It was really a different experience for me,” he said.
“Meeting your roommate for the first time (I got a really good one) and doing all the things you have to do as a freshman; I enjoyed going to ball games and playing intramural basketball games. You get to meet so many students that way.”
Because of his experience at Northern State University, Gary decided to pay it forward in the form of endowment scholarships. “Giving good students some help and a chance at education is something I enjoy,” he said. Gary and Kay have created multiple scholarship endowments over the years including a scholarship for an agriculture minor as well as a scholarship in honor of their loved ones who have passed away from cancer.
Gary and Kay said, “We want to see Northern continue to thrive. That means students continue to enroll and experience the college life. Northern has a reputation for producing great teachers and coaches and students in other fields both locally and nationally.”
Because of the Sandquists' generous support, students will be able to continue their education across multiple disciplines at Northern State.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.