The Student Senate at the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology voted
unanimously to donate $50,000 to the Student Emergency Fund to help fellow
students in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. This gift follows a generous $150,000
in donations from alumni and friends of South Dakota Mines, faculty and staff
and even students.
The Student Senate gift comes from the general activity fee
reserve fund. This fund is used to fund several student services, including the
Surbeck Center, health services, clubs and organizations and other activities.
“We are deeply grateful for the generosity of the Mines
community and the Student Senate,” says Mines President Jim Rankin. “Our
country needs each of our students to finish their degrees. These donations
ensure the next generation of scientists and engineers will graduate to help
society tackle the kind of challenges we are facing now.”
The
Student Emergency Fund was created by the South Dakota Mines Foundation to help
students who have been impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many students are
facing unforeseen financial, physical and emotional hardships.
The Student Emergency Fund will provide immediate
assistance to students impacted by COVID-19, covering such things as:
- Travel and temporary relocation assistance
- Living expenses
- Amenities such as internet for taking online classes
- Income from lost wages
- Support for emotional, physical and mental well-being
The university’s Office
of the President is working with students to administer these funds through a
brief application and review process. In the last week, the Office of the
President has been flooded with over 192 requests.
As of April 14, the requests totaled
more than $190,000 and continues to grow. Those who wish to contribute can do
so here: https://app.mobilecause.com/vf/studentfund
Update: South Dakota Mines is also receiving $750,000
in CARES Act funding that is earmarked for qualified students.