SURF mourns the passing of T. Denny Sanford
T. Denny Sanford understood that great investments in science and education create great opportunities for the state.
The generosity and vision of T. Denny Sanford helped transform a former gold mine into what is now the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF).
“Our hearts are with Denny Sanford's family, friends, and all those whose lives he touched. His generosity helped form the foundation that the Sanford Underground Research Facility (SURF) stands on today,” said Mike Headley executive director of the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority and laboratory director at SURF. “Denny’s legacy continues to inspire world-class research and scientific breakthroughs, alongside the expanded opportunities for tens of thousands of students inspired by SURF’s education and outreach activities each year. We are forever grateful for his incredible generosity.”
In 2004, after the closure of the Homestake Gold Mine, the state legislature created the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority (SDSTA) to secure the site as a viable location for future science. The leadership of then Governor Mike Rounds, alongside T. Denny Sanford’s $70-million gift, helped solidify the site selection and proved critical in the creation of the laboratory that is now flourishing in the Black Hills.
“Denny Sanford loved life. He celebrated it with passion, commitment, and his strong financial support for the causes that he dreamed would improve people’s lives,” said Casey Peterson, CPA, SDSTA charter member and board chair. “He improved rural communities and children’s health, education and outreach for STEM, and world-class research at the Sanford Underground Research Facility, as well as many others. I remember his big smiles and the “thumbs up” when he could see the results of the projects he endorsed. I will miss those celebrations of life with Denny, and his friendship.”
Education was an important component of Denny Sanford’s gift to the facility-and it remains a vital part of SURF’s mission today. The ongoing effort to inspire learning across generations means SURF now reaches more than 20,000 South Dakota students and 400 teachers annually with hands-on science learning and professional development opportunities. Additionally, the Sanford Lab Homstake Visitor Center sees nearly 60-thousand people each year who learn the story of SURF though interactive exhibits and events.
Ongoing research at SURF will continue well into the 2050’s and likely into the next century. Denny believed in what is possible and his legacy will live on through his extraordinary philanthropy and vision to transform healthcare, education, scientific research, and communities across South Dakota and around the world.
