This is a paid piece from the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.

Simplified: The Spirit of Sioux Falls scholarship has been supporting future business leaders for more than 30 years. Here's what you need to know about the scholarship's legacy, impact and application process.

Why it matters

  • The scholarship honors the Sioux Falls men who were killed in a tragic plane crash more than 30 years ago – David Birkeland, Angus Anson, and Roger Hainje. On April 19, 1993, a small, state-owned airplane crashed in eastern Iowa, killing eight people, including Gov. George Mickelson, who were returning from an economic development meeting in Ohio.
  • Since 1994, the Foundation has awarded 95 scholarships. The award amount varies, but last year two scholarships were awarded to college and technical school students studying business in the amount of $6,500. The hope is that those students will stick around and lend their talents to the business community after they graduate.
  • That was the case with Sara Lum, a 2021 scholarship recipient. Lum, who is now a co-owner of marketing firm Strategie, LLC., used the scholarship to help fund her MBA. The financial support made it possible for her to to transition into a business career.
"When I decided to change careers and return to business school in my early 30s, the financial risk weighed heavily on me," Lum said. "As a small business owner committed to this community, receiving a scholarship honoring three leaders who contributed so much to Sioux Falls was both meaningful and inspiring."

Tell me more

To be eligible, a student must:

  • Maintain residency in Lincoln or Minnehaha County in South Dakota (may attend school outside of the area) or attends an institution of higher education in Lincoln or Minnehaha County in South Dakota
  • Fit into one of the following categories:
    • Enrolled full-time in a four-year college or university and has completed at least one year of undergraduate study;
    • Enrolled full-time in a graduate program;
    • Enrolled full-time in a two-year program at a vocational or technical school or community college and have completed at least one semester;
    • Enrolled full-time in a two-year program at a vocational or technical school or community college, have completed at least one year, and plan to continue studying at a four-year college or university. In this case, the award will be paid to the college or university upon proof of enrollment.
  • Pursue a degree in business

Scholarship recipients are also selected based on their ability to articulate an understanding of the role of business in society, their motivation, their academic achievements and overall need.

“As a non-profit economic development organization, we are committed to supporting the growth and development of our community,” said Karen Ruhland, director of research, membership and communications for the Foundation. “Workforce development is part of that. This is a significant scholarship that makes obtaining a degree more affordable, while highlighting their legacy and dedication to our community. These men were role models that hopefully our scholarship recipients will emulate throughout their careers.”

How can I apply?

You can learn more about the Spirit of Sioux Falls Scholarship and apply here.

The deadline for applications is March 15, 2026.