DSU brings cyber-infused mission, hands-on learning to SiouxperCon

September 25, 2026

MADISON, S.D. - Dakota State University will bring its cyber-infused mission and hands-on learning to SiouxperCon 2026 this weekend at the Sioux Falls Convention Center. The convention runs Friday, Sept. 25 through Sunday, Sept. 27.

DSU will have a presence throughout the three-day pop culture convention, with faculty, staff, and students connecting with attendees through animation, computer game design, cybersecurity, and other technology-focused activities.

"Bringing Dakota State University to SiouxperCon is a natural fit for our university, because it brings together people who are curious, creative, and passionate about the things they love," said DSU Chief Marketing Officer Andrew Sogn. "That spirit is very much a part of who we are at DSU, and this gives our faculty, students, and staff a chance to showcase the full range of what happens at our university."

DSU activities throughout the weekend include:

• An animation panel with College of Arts & Sciences faculty Daniel Welynn and Konrad Lightner on Friday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m.
• A computer game design panel with The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences faculty Erik Pederson and Peter Britton on Saturday, Sept. 26 at 3 p.m.
• A DSU video game competition on Saturday, Sept. 26 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m., featuring a DSU-developed video game and prizes for the fastest time during each hour of the competition.
• Governors Cyber Academy and CybHER® staff and students leading activities in the SiouxperCon Kids Zone throughout the weekend, giving younger attendees opportunities to explore technology through interactive experiences.

Dakota State is also sponsoring the SiouxperCon appearance of voice actor Sean Chiplock and will have representatives available throughout the convention to talk with attendees about the university and its academic opportunities.

SiouxperCon is a nonprofit, volunteer-led pop culture convention that brings together more than 10,000 fans each year for celebrity guests, artists and vendors, cosplay, gaming, panels, workshops, and family activities. Beyond celebrating fandom, the event promotes literacy, STEAM education, creativity, and community engagement, with proceeds supporting local charitable organizations.

For convention schedules, admission information, and other details, visit siouxpercon.com.

Tags: College of Arts & Sciences All News Cyber Research Stories The Beacom College of Computer & Cyber Sciences College of Business & Information Systems College of Education & Human Performance Academics DSU Online