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HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT WINS SPOT AT INTERNATIONAL SCIENCE FAIR 37 YEARS AFTER HIS DAD.

fair at Mines, so Tom entered Louis on his own. “I registered as our own school so we could attend this fair,” says Tom. “Louis was working on this project for over a year, but he was unable to attend previous fairs due to the pandemic. I told him, do not worry about winning an award. Just concentrate on thoroughly knowing your project and be able to clearly explain it to anyone in simple and technical terms. That is how a judge will recognize the project is the student's own work.”

Tom adds that science fairs are an important way to inspire future generations of scientists and engineers. Louis agrees. “The science fair teaches you how to talk and communicate about your project; this will help you in the future with professional and public speaking,” says Louis.

Head judge, Tom Durkin (MS Geol 86) of the NASA South Dakota Space Grant Consortium at Mines says, “Louis did a tremendous job on his science fair project which included a lot of experimentation and testing, and he presented the results so well, both verbally and graphically. What impressed our final selection team so much was his thorough understanding of the subject and the science behind it.”

Louis is planning to continue to follow his father’s footsteps by attending South Dakota Mines. His passion may focus on mechanical engineering, rather than civil, but Louis sees a positive future in these fields.

“Engineering and science drive our economy. Everything in our modern lives comes from these disciplines,” says Louis. “I’m very glad to hear that Louis is considering mechanical engineering at Mines. We now have an aerospace engineering minor in that department. We wish him the best at the international fair,” says Durkin.

The Regeneron International Science and Engineering Fair takes place in Dallas, Texas, in May. Tom Rancour's advice for Louis: "Enjoy the experience and do whatever activities you want to take part in at the international fair."

As we head into summer, we reflect on another successful academic year. As you have read, there is much to be proud of. South Dakota Mines is thriving. I use the word “momentum” often with our team. I like the idea that momentum means the team is in motion and making the right kind of progress.

Our mission is to support the university. We do that by engaging you through communication, events and keeping you connected to campus. We also have the privilege of working with you on your philanthropic decisions. Giving to South Dakota Mines is critical to our continued success. The needs are endless.

We have momentum in both areas. We have engaged more alumni in recent years through 60+ events at home and across the country.

And thanks to your generous support, this past fiscal year we raised a record $20.86 million. With June 30 quickly approaching, we are on track for a similar year. Your gifts are helping make the Nucor Mineral Industries Building and the Surbeck Center expansion possible, you are supporting departments, programs and CARA, and through scholarship support you are helping students to receive their STEM education.

Momentum allows us to help South Dakota Mines reach new heights. Please continue your engagement and loyal support or get reconnected for the first time. The next generation of Hardrockers is counting on us.

Sincerely,

Paul R. Krueger Chief Executive Officer

South Dakota Mines Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement (CARA)