Barry Dunn

Barry H. Dunn is the 20th president of South Dakota State University, assuming office on May 23, 2016.1 As an alumnus of SDSU, he is the fourth graduate chosen to lead the institution. Dunn brings a diverse background to his role, combining academic expertise with practical experience in agriculture.

Background and Heritage

Barry Dunn is an enrolled tribal member of the Sicangu Lakota and has lived on the Rosebud Reservation in South Dakota.1 Notably, he is believed to be the first enrolled member of a federally recognized tribe to serve as president of an 1862 land-grant university.

Professional Experience

Academic Career::

• President of South Dakota State University (May 2016 - Present)
• Professor of Animal Science at SDSU (May 2010 - Present)
• Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture and Biological Sciences at SDSU

Prior Experience::

• Successful rancher and farm operator
• Executive Director of the King Ranch Institute for Range Management

Expertise and Contributions

Dunn is recognized as a national expert in beef production and ranching systems.1 He is a published author and researcher, actively participating in professional organizations such as the Society for Range Management and the American Society of Animal Science.

Notable Initiatives

One of Dunn's significant contributions is the Wokini Initiative, which aims to increase programming and support for students from South Dakota's nine tribal nations.1 This initiative has garnered recognition and awards, including the 2019 Bush Prize for Community Innovation.

Awards and Honors

• William H. Hatch Memorial Lecture (2019)
• Bush Prize for Community Innovation (2019)
• Harold W. McGraw, Jr. Prize in Higher Education (2022)

Barry Dunn's leadership at SDSU is characterized by his deep historical and cultural knowledge of South Dakota, strong statewide relationships, and commitment to student success, particularly in advancing opportunities for Native American students.1