Roger and Vicki Musick have made a landmark $33 million donation to elevate education in Mitchell, South Dakota. The gift includes two $15 million endowments—one for Mitchell Public Schools (MPS) and one for Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU)—plus $3 million in immediate funding to launch new programs.
Each endowment will generate ~$750,000 annually, supporting education for generations.
MPS educators will receive scholarships to pursue master’s degrees and professional development at DWU.
Scholarships will be available for MPS graduates and high school students on free/reduced lunch to take DWU courses.
DWU’s education department will expand, offering hands-on classroom experience for future teachers.
MPS will launch Begindergarten, expand after-school programs, and add tutors and enrichment opportunities.
A Vision for the Future The Musicks’ donation is the largest in DWU’s 140-year history. While MPS will manage its endowment through a new Foundation for Academic Excellence.
Roger Musick, a Mitchell native, SD Mines graduate and tech entrepreneur, emphasized that the gift is a call to action for the entire community. He urged local businesses to offer internships, expand childcare, and support student attendance and parental involvement.
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