Celebrating 10 Years of Service: Amanda Bramhall

This year, the DSU Heritage Foundation proudly celebrates Accounting Manager Amanda Bramhall and her remarkable 10 years of service. As one of the Foundation's earliest team members, Amanda has witnessed and helped drive the incredible growth of the organization from its earliest days to the thriving foundation it is today.

When Amanda reflects on her decade with the Foundation, it is often the internal milestones that stand out most. "I remember when we would run reports with the list of all of our projects and scholarships, and the day that it printed onto the second page, we had to celebrate," she recalls. "That same report today is 22 pages." It's a simple but powerful reminder of just how much the Foundation has expanded in support of Dickinson State University students, programs, and initiatives.

Amanda's journey has grown alongside the Foundation's. She was one of just three staff members who began building the new Foundation from offices in May Hall.

"When I went up to May Hall to be one of the three people to start building the new Foundation, I was still learning the workings of what the Foundation's purpose was," Amanda said. "As the Foundation has grown, I have also grown in my knowledge and experience at the same time. Knowing that I was one of the key people that got it to where it is today is just crazy." While Amanda's role centers on accounting and financial management, what motivates her most is the impact the Foundation has on students.

She recalls a former student employee who shared how working alongside her helped shape their career path after graduation. "One of the work studies that helped in my office said to me after she graduated that it was because of me and how much she learned from me working on Foundation items that it helped her decide what direction she wanted to pursue in the workforce," Amanda said. "Knowing that I can make a difference in their future decisions reassures me that the work we do here is more than regular office work. We are making a lasting impression on students and showing them encouragement and support as they venture off after graduation."

Amanda has also enjoyed being part of the Foundation's close-knit team culture and watching it evolve over the years. One of her favorite memories is moving into what is now the DSU Heritage Foundation building. "When we found out that the Foundation house was being purchased to house the new Foundation staff, we moved from two small offices in May Hall into this large, beautiful building," she said. "We were staking claim on our own office spaces thinking we had all this room, and it was so awesome." Today, the situation looks much different. "Now, we are trying to find empty corners to put workstations in for all of the people joining the team. Back then, I don't think any of us thought we would ever be at full capacity, but here we are!" Despite the growth, some traditions remain. "We still use our original 'intercom system' at times like we used to do to the people in the next room, just yelling their name or having discussions from our desks," she laughed.

Amanda's dedication and leadership have played a vital role in shaping the DSU Heritage Foundation into the thriving organization it is today. Her commitment to excellence has not only strengthened the Foundation's operations but also helped build trust with donors, students, and the community. "Amanda's attention to detail and commitment to excellence have been instrumental to the Foundation's success. Her dedication ensures that every gift is managed responsibly and that our donors can trust the stewardship of their contributions."

Ty Orton, DSU Heritage Foundation Executive Director

2023 DSU Give Day with the team!

As she celebrates this milestone, Amanda remains optimistic about the Foundation's future.

"I don't think I can imagine the Foundation getting any better than it already is. I never thought it would have grown to be this amazing," she said. "If I had one wish for the Foundation, it would be that we would have to add an additional level to the building to make room for the expanding team, and I get to design my new corner office that has my own balcony and a massage chair in the corner for break time."

For 10 years, Amanda has helped steward the Foundation's growth, support student success, and build a culture that feels like family. We are grateful for her dedication, leadership, and countless contributions to the DSU Heritage Foundation.

Congratulations, Amanda, on 10 outstanding years!