By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University President Barry Dunn has awarded Presidential Medallions to three people who have made significant contributions to the university and South Dakota. The recipients are Mark Luecke, Jeff Lautt, and Brenda Forman.
The Presidential Medallion is one of the university’s highest forms of recognition. It honors individuals whose work has provided meaningful support to South Dakota State University and helped advance its goals in education, research, agriculture, and economic development.
The three medallions are presented during SDSU’s September 26, 2026, a football game against Eastern Illinois. The recognition highlights the long-term efforts of Luecke, Lautt, and Forman, and their continued connection to the university and the state.
The Presidential Medallion recognizes people whose personal efforts have made a significant contribution to the progress of South Dakota State University. The award also reflects the university’s appreciation for supporters who help strengthen its programs, research, and outreach.
Mark Luecke
Mark Luecke is the managing director and CEO of South Dakota Innovation Partners. His career focuses on helping university research move toward commercial use by improving access to venture capital.
Through his work, Luecke has supported the development of new businesses and technologies based on university research. His efforts have helped multiple startups that contribute to South Dakota’s agriculture economy.
Jeff Lautt
Jeff Lautt is an SDSU graduate and serves as chief operating officer at POET. He is a supporter of the bioproducts industry and has worked to advance research, innovation, and economic development.
Lautt has helped promote efforts that connect research with business and industry. He is an advocate for public-private partnerships, which bring universities, businesses, and other organizations together to develop new ideas and economic opportunities.
Brenda Forman
Brenda Forman is a distinguished SDSU alumna and a longtime supporter of the university. She promotes SDSU research and extension efforts across South Dakota.
Forman is president of Ag Unity and executive director of the South Dakota Association of Cooperatives. Her career has spanned 29 years, giving her extensive experience working with agriculture and organizations across the state.
Forman also advocates for SDSU across the state and in the legislature. Her efforts help bring attention to the university’s role in research, education, and extension.
Together, the three recipients represent different areas of support for South Dakota State University. Luecke contributes through university research, commercialization, and venture capital. Lautt supports bioproducts, innovation and public-private partnerships. Forman promotes research, extension, and agricultural interests across the state.
“For a public university to achieve high levels of excellence, it requires the dedicated commitment of many hands and many hearts. Your personal labors have been singular, generous and significant in the progress of South Dakota State University. It is therefore, with sincere thanks, that we recognize you with the highest symbol of the university’s great esteem and deep appreciation,” the presidential citations says.
Photo Credit: South Dakota State University
Categories: South Dakota, General