Seniors Frank Becker, from Pierre, and McKenzie Thompson, from Canton, were crowned King and Queen on Sept. 22 as part of Swarm Days, the annual homecoming week at Black Hills State University.
Becker is majoring in sociology with a double minor in business and history. He is active in athletics on campus, running on the men’s track and field team where he has placed in the top ten at the RMAC Indoor and Outdoor Conference across multiple years. Additionally, Becker is a member of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and the worship team leader for Campus Ventures.
When Becker finishes college, he hopes to apply the skills gathered at BHSU to the workforce. Specifically, Becker sees himself working in a managerial role in a business environment with a special emphasis on building lasting connections.
“Black Hills State University is fantastic at making sure that every student succeeds in their academics. Your professors and your assigned advisor do a wonderful job to make sure that you take the right classes that pertain to your major,” Becker said of his time on campus.
Thompson is majoring in economics and finance, and minoring in mathematics. On campus, Thompson is an active participant in Residence Life, Student Senate, and is a peer mentor, among numerous other roles. Outside of academics, Thompson volunteers with a local religious institution to help female high school students and volunteers for an environmental cleanup organization.
After completing her education at Black Hills State University, Thompson seeks to become a professor of economics, but says it’s important to keep herself open to new opportunities that may arise.
Reflecting on her time at BHSU, Thompson said, “At Black Hills State, you are more than a number; professors know your name and are more than happy to assist you in any way they can. Classmates recognize you and it is easy to form relationships both in and out of the classroom. At Black Hills State you have access to opportunities that are simply not available at larger institutions.”
Joining them on the Swarm Days Royal Court are David Cook, Dawson Doyen, Nicholas Peterson, Paxton Klug, Kassidi Bailey, Katie Jaycox, Lauren Gasseling, and Madi Moody.
The 2022 Swarm Days theme was King Sting and the Knights of the Roundtable.