Champions
Like You

Despite the rough start, Mike’s time at DSU became one of the most rewarding chapters of his life. A favorite memory from his early days was the leather helmet he was given for spring football practice. “I couldn’t believe it. DSU was still using leather helmets from the 1940s and 1950s,” he laughs. The experience, though unexpected, symbolized a unique aspect of campus life at the time.

Another unforgettable moment was when President Richard Nixon visited DSU in 1970 to dedicate the new library in honor of Karl Mundt. With 10,000 people in attendance, it was Nixon’s first speech outside of Washington, D.C., and Mike remembers the excitement it generated on campus. “It was a huge moment for DSU, and something I’ll always remember,” he says.

Mike’s college years were also shaped by the people he met, especially his football coach, Lee Moran. “Lee Moran was by far the most impactful person during my time at DSU,” Mike reflects. “He had this amazing ability to connect with us as players and was dedicated to helping the team improve both on and off the field.” Moran’s mentorship not only influenced Mike’s time as an athlete but also helped instill a strong work ethic that would guide him throughout his life.

During school, Mike joined the Illinois National Guard, knowing he could be drafted to Vietnam. He committed to traveling back each month to reaffirm his interest in remaining in the Guard. “I did a 16-hour round trip every month to sign the book and state that I was still interested,” Mike recalls. His service as a wheel vehicle mechanic further taught him discipline and perseverance.

In 1976, Mike entered the business world, joining KVF-Quad Corporation, a powder-coating and metal-finishing company. Starting with just three partners, Mike took on various roles, from sandblasting to fabrication. “I had to do a little bit of everything in the beginning,” he says. His first commission check was a modest $3.50, but over the years, the company grew, and Mike helped build it into a successful business. “I credit my time at DSU for giving me the background and knowledge that helped me succeed in business,” he says. He retired in 2020 after helping guide KVF-Quad to industry leadership.

Mike remains deeply connected to DSU, and his visit to campus in 2024 left him impressed by the new facilities. “It’s amazing to see all the changes. The students and student-athletes now have so many opportunities to succeed,” he says.

Looking back on his time at DSU, Mike is clear about the impact it had on his life. “DSU gave me more than just a degree,” he reflects. “It gave me a foundation for everything that came after—both professionally and personally.” From his early days as a student-athlete to his successful career in business, Mike Crotty’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, mentorship, and the lasting impact of the experiences that shape us.

Shirley has had the privilege of meeting and sharing meals with several scholarship recipients over the years. During these moments, she highlights the importance of hard work and dedication, values that align with the opportunities her gift supports.

This endowment is part of a broader impact being made on DSU’s athletics programs. Blankley Field, an integral part of the new athletics complex, is poised to enhance the university’s facilities, providing both current and future athletes with top-tier resources. The addition of this field is expected to strengthen DSU’s recruiting efforts, making the university more competitive within collegiate athletics.

Through this generous support, Shirley has played a pivotal role in ensuring that DSU athletics continues to evolve and thrive, simultaneously honoring its rich history and paving the way for an even brighter future. This contribution has helped lay the foundation for sustained success and has become a vital part of shaping DSU’s athletic programs for years to come.

Miles Beacom, an accomplished alumnus of DSU, and his wife, Lisa, have consistently demonstrated their passion for education and community development. Their support has funded the construction of state-of-the-art academic, athletic, and research facilities on DSU’s campus, enriching the experience of students and staff alike. These improvements provide a nurturing environment for educational excellence and athletic achievement, ensuring DSU remains a competitive and attractive institution for students from all over.

For Miles Beacom, the decision to give back stems from the critical role DSU played in his and his brother Dan’s lives—both credit DSU with providing the education and foundations that allowed them to succeed in their careers. Miles’ brother, Dan, left a legacy of humility, mentorship, and leadership, supporting others with his unwavering belief in the power of teamwork. This shared appreciation and value for the education they received have been a driving force behind the Beacoms’ continued generosity toward the university.

The Beacoms’ impact is not limited to the DSU campus. Their involvement has strengthened the Madison community and extended into Sioux Falls through partnerships that bring new opportunities and visibility to the university and the region. Their philanthropy has created excitement and optimism among students, faculty, and community members, further cementing DSU as a pillar of educational excellence in South Dakota.

Through their unwavering support, Miles and Lisa Beacom exemplify the decisive role that alumni can play in shaping the future of their alma mater. Their story serves as a testament to the lasting impact that giving back to one’s community can have. The Beacoms’ vision and generosity not only honor the past but also set the stage for a bright and promising future for Dakota State University, its students, and the communities it serves.

“We both love South Dakota and we love being able to help have an impact on Dakota State and South Dakota,” said Miles. “And it’s fun watching the excitement at Dakota State and in the Madison community, and now it’s overflowing into Sioux Falls with the new partnership.”