ABERDEEN, SD – During today’s April Board of Regents meeting, Nathan Lukkes, the Executive Director of the South Dakota Board of Regents, provided a candid assessment of the recent legislative session, highlighting challenges and successes met by the state’s public university system.
Among the most pressing concerns was the budgetary landscape, with lawmakers implementing cuts that will require institutions to make tough financial decisions. After many years of strong legislative support, these reductions may threaten key programs, support services, and physical infrastructure, potentially impacting the state’s long-term workforce development and economic growth.
However, the report also acknowledged a positive outcome: the one-time restoration of maintenance and repair funding for campus facilities, offsetting the impact of the ongoing budget cut for the upcoming fiscal year. These funds are essential for preserving the security, functionality, and longevity of university infrastructure. Lukkes expressed gratitude to legislators who recognized the importance of maintaining the state’s higher education assets, ensuring students have access to safe and well-maintained learning environments.
“We appreciate the restoration of these critical funds for Fiscal Year 2026, which allow us to address deferred maintenance issues that, if ignored, would lead to much higher costs in the future,” said Lukkes. “While this session presented serious challenges, we remain committed to advocating for policies that support our students, faculty, and institutions.”
Additionally, the passage of Senate Bill 100, the “Guns on Campus” bill, which was met with opposition from the higher education community, is top of mind for university leaders. Lukkes reiterated the safety and well-being of students, employees, and guests will always be our highest priority. Ultimately, the legislature amended the bill to address several of the issues raised by South Dakota’s public university system, but concern and uncertainty over its impact remain.
As the state’s higher education community moves forward, Lukkes reaffirmed a commitment to working with lawmakers, stakeholders, and the public to ensure that the public universities are strong institutions of opportunity and innovation for South Dakota.
