Continuing Legacy: Cynthia and Mark Mickelson’s Commitment to South Dakota

Mark and Cynthia Mickelson, personally and through their family’s giving, have established both non-permanent and endowment funds at SDCF, ensuring they can address South Dakota’s immediate needs while planning for its future.  

Nonpermanent funds allow them  to respond quickly to urgent issues, such as disaster relief or education. Meanwhile, endowment funds provide lasting support througha perpetual, steady stream of distributions to the causes the  Mickelsons care about. This dual approach reflects their commitment  to balancing immediate impact with  enduring influence, encouraging others to consider both options for their philanthropic goals. 

Nonpermanent funds are meant  to be fully spendable and are not limited to any distribution amount, whereas the Mickelsons’ endowment provides a perpetual funding source for charitable causes the family cares about. 

Every great movement begins with a vision; SDCF is no exception. In  1987, Governor George S. Mickelson  dreamed of creating a resource to uplift communities across the state for generations to come. His leadership brought this vision to life with a $2 million challenge grant from state government that united South Dakotans to build a brighter  future. Today, his son Mark and  daughter-in-law, Cynthia continue this mission with the same spirit of service and generosity. 

Cynthia’s connection to the foundation is also deeply personal. Growing up in Miller, South Dakota, she witnessed her parents, Jim and Nini Hart, champion local causes through the Miller Area Foundation. Their efforts supported projects that strengthened the community and inspired Cynthia to embrace a lifelong commitment to giving back. 

As an SDCF board member, she honors her parents’ legacy by fostering opportunities for South Dakotans nationwide. For the Mickelsons, SDCF is more than an organization, it reflects the resilience and generosity that define their families. By continuing the work started by George Mickelson and the Harts, they ensure the Foundation remains a source of hope and progress. Their thoughtful giving inspires others to consider how both nonpermanent and endowment funds can shape South Dakota’s future while meeting the needs of today.