Frequently Asked Questions

General:

What is Raising for Rockers? 

Raising for Rockers is South Dakota Mines' signature giving day. It is a 24-hour giving event that rallies alumni, faculty, staff, students, parents, and friends of the university to support what they love most about Mines. 

It's a celebration of philanthropy and campus pride where donors can give to specific campus projects that directly impact students. 

Why should I give to Mines? 

When you give to Mines, you help shape the future of students and programs that are changing the world. Every gift, no matter the size, strengthens opportunities for students, fuels innovation across campus, and helps the university continue to reach new heights.

When is Raising for Rockers? 

Raising for Rockers 2026 takes place February 18–19, 2026, from noon to noon.

How can I spread the word about Raising for Rockers? 

You can help by sharing the campaign on your social media channels using #RaisingForRockers. Encourage your classmates, colleagues, and friends to give to the areas that matter most to them. You can also download and share materials from our social media toolkit.

Giving Questions:

Are gifts to South Dakota Mines tax-deductible? 

Yes! The Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Gifts may be tax-deductible. Consult your tax advisor to learn how a gift may benefit you and South Dakota Mines. A receipt will be provided for your records.

How will my gift be used? 

That depends on the project or fund you select. Each campaign page includes a short description outlining how gifts will be used to benefit students and campus programs.

How do I make my gift? 

Giving opens at noon on February 18 and continues through noon on February 19. Visit raisingforrockers.sdsmt.edu to make your gift online. Browse through the projects to find what you’d like to support.

Can I give to my favorite department or program?

Absolutely! Just indicate your preference when making your gift.

Ways to Give:

Where do I mail a gift? 

Please make gifts payable to South Dakota Mines CARA and mail to: 

South Dakota Mines CARA

330 E Kansas City St 

Rapid City, SD 57701


Include a note specifying your gift designation, if applicable.

Can I use PayPal or Venmo?

Yes! PayPal and Venmo are available on the checkout screen. 

Can I use ACH?

Yes! ACH is available on the payment method screen during the checkout process. 

Can I give through a Donor Advised Fund (DAF)?

Yes! You can make a Donor Advised Fund gift in two easy ways. 

1.) Choose your designation and complete the steps to make a gift, and on the credit card information screen, you can choose DAF Pay, ACH, or Credit Card. 

2.) Recommend a gift to "South Dakota Mines Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement" to your Donor Advised Fund Holder. 


South Dakota Mines Center for Alumni Relations & Advancement 

EIN: 46-6011771 


Let us know if you'd like to direct your DAF gift to a specific program or fund.

How do I make a stock gift? 

We accept gifts of appreciated securities, which may offer tax advantages. Contact cara@sdsmt.edu or your Development Officer for instructions and account details.

How do I make a wire transfer?

Wire transfers are quick and secure. Email cara@sdsmt.edu or call 605.394.2436 for wire instructions.

How do I make a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from my IRA?

If you're 70½ or older, you can make a tax-free gift from your IRA. Ask your plan administrator to initiate the distribution to: 


South Dakota Mines CARA 

330 E Kansas City St 

Rapid City, SD 57701 


Please notify us so we can credit your gift properly.