SPEARFISH, S.D. – Supporters of higher education across the region, including community members from nearby Rapid City, gathered at the Black Hills State University Joy Center on July 25 for the Believers & Achievers Annual Scholarship Gala. Pioneer Bank & Trust sponsored the event bar, donated an estimated $10,000 during the live drive cash fundraiser, and purchased an estimated $2,500 worth of items before donating them back to support the fundraiser. Further elevating the event’s total, Jeb and Maureen Clarkson, of the Clarkson family of Pioneer Bank & Trust, personally donated an additional $50,000. A portion of the day’s total giving will be utilized to launch a new academic discipline in farm and ranch management at the university. “It was the brainchild of the new Business School Dean, Matthew Dobra.” The event outcome reinforces educational access for students throughout the Black Hills and the greater Rapid City region. “Every dollar raised during the Gala directly supports scholarships, helping students pursue their education and achieve their dreams,” BHSU stated.