Federal leaders visit Dakota State University

April 24, 2026

Dakota State University hosted U.S. Senator Mike Rounds and senior federal cyber leadership April 23-24 for a strategic visit focused on cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, quantum research, and workforce development.

Joining Sen. Rounds were The Honorable Katherine Sutton, Assistant Secretary of War for Cyber Policy and Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of War, and Mr. Brandon Pugh, Principal Cyber Advisor to the Secretary of the Army, along with members of their teams.

The visit provided an in-depth look at DSU's nationally recognized programs and its role in supporting national security through education, applied research, and public-private partnerships.

Engagements highlighted the university's strengths in cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and quantum research, as well as its distinction as one of only nine institutions in the nation to hold all three National Security Agency Center of Academic Excellence designations.

Discussions also emphasized DSU's role in developing the cyber workforce through scalable education pathways, including K-12 outreach, teacher education, and workforce-aligned academic programs. Together, these efforts reflect DSU's commitment to advancing capability, strengthening partnerships, and preparing graduates to meet evolving national and global challenges.

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