Dakota State University is receiving a one-million-dollar gift from Sanford Health to support students in computer science and cybersecurity.

The gift establishes the Miles and Lisa Beacom Fund for Academic Excellence, providing scholarships and financial assistance for internships, research, professional conferences, and technology competitions.

Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health, said that few people have done more to strengthen the future of South Dakota than Miles and Lisa Beacom. He added that, through their unwavering supp ort of Sanford Health’s mission and longstanding commitment to education and philanthropy, Miles and Lisa have created opportunities that will benefit generations of South Dakotans.

The fund will support high-achieving students in DSU’s Beacom College of Computer and Cyber Sciences. Eligible students must maintain at least a 3.5 grade-point average, with preference given to graduates of South Dakota high schools.

Up to four second-year students may be selected each academic year, with continued support available for up to three years.

The fund will be available to students beginning in the fall of 2027. University officials say the investment will help students gain practical experience, develop professional skills, and prepare for careers in South Dakota’s growing technology and cybersecurity industries.