DSU Nanocon continues to reach new heights

November 14, 2025

Nanocon, the annual free gaming convention put on by the Dakota State University Games Club, just wrapped another landmark year of the event.

The Nanocon planning committee, led by student Mikal Bennett, brought in over 1,000 attendees, with 572 being DSU students, and hosted over 50 individual events throughout the weekend.

"There were more events, more sponsors, more attendees, and most importantly, more positive feedback from the community," said Chad Compton, (computer game design '25), an alumnus who assisted with the event.

In addition to the planning committee and help from alumni like Compton, eight clubs participated in activities throughout the con, and 30 student volunteers worked the event.

"No other student-led event on campus accomplishes a joining of other organizations like this event does," Compton said.

However, the impact extends beyond students and student organizations; faculty, staff, and members of the public also come to campus to participate, and vendors in attendance generated $30,000 in revenue.

Additionally, the Nanocon planning committee makes sure to give back as well by organizing the annual pre-Nanocon charity gaming livestream event. This year, they raised over $700 for Sanford Children's Network.

"It is obvious that this event continues to push the limit of what student collaboration in a community service package can be," Compton said.

Nanocon remains free to attend through sponsorships and donations, and will return in November 2026.

Tags: Student Life All News Alumni