Legacy

What's Your Legacy?

The University of South Dakota and the Alumni Association are proud to honor the legacy families of USD, and their unending support for our university, its programs and its students. This scholarship program aims to bring the Coyote family together to recognize and support the children of alumni who pursue a degree at USD and see it as the obvious choice.

The “What’s Your Legacy?” series will not only highlight current legacy families, but it will also give students and alumni alike a chance to further understand the impact the Coyote Legacy Scholarship has on incoming freshman and their educational experience at USD. Updates, stories and details will be posted via social media, our website, emails and more.

Meet our 2023 Legacy Families »

2023 Coyote Legacy Family of the Year

The Cash family has a long history with the University of South Dakota – generations’ worth, in fact.

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Fourth-Generation Coyote Continues Family's Legacy

Though he felt the pull of his family ties to attend the University of South Dakota, fourth-generation Coyote, Cliff Johnson, said he chose to attend the state's flagship university because of its academic excellence and amazing support system. His family legacy was just a bonus.

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A Family Tradition: The Davis/Lavin Family

The Davis/Lavin family has had 5 generations of family members attend the University of South Dakota, since the early 1900s. The Coyote Legacy Scholarship Program aims to honor and recognize families, like the Davis/Lavin family, who have made a multi-generational commitment to USD.

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Taken in the late 1920s or early 30s, this photo shows Marshall Davis at the back of the photo to the right of the man in the hat and tie.

Inspired to support future Coyote legacies? Give to the Coyote Beginnings Scholarship Fund today!

The Coyote Beginnings Fund is a general scholarship fund that seeks to bridge gaps in students’ financial aid needs. This fund is different from others because it keeps funds with the students rather than being tied to an academic unit or department. The Coyote Beginnings Scholarship Fund empowers students to realize their educational dreams, explore their passions and prepare for a fulfilling career. Show your gratitude for the education and experiences you received at USD by paying it forward to the next generation of Coyote legacies.

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Are you a multi-generational Coyote? Tell us your family's story for a chance to be featured!

Tell us about your multi-generational Coyote Family!

Baby Yote Gallery

Have a new Yote in the family? Fill out our Yote Notes Form to be featured in our gallery!

Submit a Yote Note
A baby in USD Coyote Gear
Cody '16 and Rachel '17 (Meyer) Breen welcomed their second son, Hayden George, into the world on November 14, 2023. He is welcomed home by big brother Connor. Proud to pass on the love of the Yotes to our boys!
A baby in a USD Coyote shirt
Jennifer '12 and Ryan Murtha welcomed Aliyah to their family! Aliyah was born on March 6, 2023 and adopted on September 18, 2023.
A newborn baby asleep in a green bucket.
Brooke '07, '10 and Chris '08 Schloss welcomed Frances Julia on June 8, 2023. She joins sisters Lucille and Josephine.
A newborn baby sleeps in someone's hands.
Marcus and Ashley Dvorak '10 welcomed their son, James Michael, to the world on June 2, 2023.