The Class XI Graduation Banquet and Fundraising Auction is set for March 25 in Fort Pierre at the Casey Tibbs Rodeo Center and Museum. We welcome the SDARL family to attend for a wonderful night of fellowship and networking, plus a chance to hear from new SDARL CEO Janelle Booth. Class XI has an amazing assortment of items and experiences available! We’ve been getting lots of questions, so here are some answers.
How do I get tickets?
Visit the auction link and click on Get Tickets. Dinner is $40 per person. Please register by March 18. Registration the night of the banquet will be subject to meal availability.
Is it a live auction or silent auction?
BOTH! Online bidding for silent auction items opens on March 18 and will close at 7pm (Central) on the night of the auction. The live auction with auctioneer Frank Bloom (SDARL V) will be in-person only, and bidders or their representative must be in attendance! You won’t want to miss the special items that are on the live auction only!
How do I bid on silent auction items?
Go to sdarlclassxi.givesmart.com and click on Register to Participate. Create your account or log in to an existing account, enter your details and credit card information. You can easily browse and bid on items. Guests attending the banquet in person will also use the digital platform to bid.
How will I receive my auction purchases?
Live auction items must be picked up on the night of the auction. Most silent auction items can also be picked up that night. Online winners of silent auction items will be contacted by a member of Class XI to coordinate delivery.
Who can participate in the auction?
Attendance is not limited to SDARL, so please feel free to share the auction link with your friends and colleagues. All are welcome to participate in the silent auction and/or join you at the banquet.
What’s this about an ATV?
A brand-new Polaris Sportsman 450 H.O. ATV valued at $6,999 will be up for grabs! A limited number of keys representing a chance to WIN will be included with selected live and silent auction items, as well as games for those attending in person (hint: wear your SDARL name badge!)
Are there other alumni activities on graduation weekend?
Yes. Sunday, March 26 will include a non-denominational prayer service at 9:30am at the AmericInn, followed by alumni meeting at 10:00am. The Class XI graduation program begins at 11:00 at the Casey Tibbs. No charge for the luncheon, but please register using the Get Tickets link on the auction site.
Is there a hotel block?
Yes. Hotel group blocks for March 25 are available at AmericInn Fort Pierre for $129, call (605) 223-2359, or Quality Inn Pierre for $80, call (605) 224-0377. Please reserve rooms by March 10 to receive the group rate.
What is the inclement weather plan?
Given this year’s track record, we have implemented a postponement date of April 22 should travel be affected by weather on March 25. If necessary, the announcement will be made at least 3 days in advance.
