Letter from the President | May 2025

Dear Friends in Christ,

Last week, I had the privilege of gathering in Green Bay, Wisconsin, with 37 fellow Catholic foundation presidents from across the country. Once again, I was reminded of how truly blessed we are here in our diocese. I’m incredibly grateful for the way you—our donors, partners, and friends—are embracing the call to be missionary disciples. Your generosity is a powerful testament to your faith and plays a vital role in answering that call.

We are continually inspired by the stories you share—stories of how your giving is touching lives, strengthening families, and building up our communities. These moments of grace fuel our mission and energize our team at the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota.

On April 24, our board convened in Vermillion at the St. Thomas More Newman Center. In addition to conducting our regular board meeting, we spent intentional time discussing how we can most effectively respond to the needs of our community and provide opportunities for others to do the same. We also heard directly from students at the Newman Center, who shared moving testimonies of their faith journeys and conversions. Their stories filled us with great hope for the future of the Church.

Thank you for the many ways you share your time, talent, and treasure. Your witness and generosity are a vital part of the hope we hold for our Church and community in Eastern South Dakota.

With gratitude and prayers,

Tony Menke
President, Chief Executive Officer