Beacom Institute of Technology

Dakota State University

On November 25, 2013, philanthropist T. Denny Sanford, together with PREMIER Bankcard CEO Miles Beacom and his wife Lisa, donated $5 million to enhance Dakota State University’s cybersecurity programs.

The gift was used to help construct a state-of-the-art facility, the Beacom Institute of Technology, where students are trained in the latest technological and cyber security advancements. The building also provides ample space for collaboration of faculty across disciplines.

In recognition of the gift, DSU also renamed its college of computing to the Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences.

• The $11.4 million Beacom Institute of Technology is designed specifically to meet the needs of students in tech-intensive programs and cyber security.

• The Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences offers undergraduate and graduate level courses. It’s the first university to partner with the National Security Agency (NSA) to offer continuing education and training for NSA employees.

• Dakota State University is a recognized leader in cybersecurity and holds four significant Centers of Academic Excellence Designations from the NSA and Department of Homeland Security.

• The most prestigious designation is as a Cyber Defense Consultative Regional Resource Center—one of only four university-based centers in the nation.