Donor Spotlight: Roger Erickson (’62) Talks Pizza Sauce and Patronage

Year after year Dickinson State University (DSU) alum Roger Erickson (’62) and his wife Deborah have committed to giving what little they can to support DSU scholarship students. Erickson was honored as the 2022 AZ Golf Difference Maker Recipient, a DSU Heritage Foundation (DSU HF) award recognizing individuals who have supported DSU programs consistently for more than five years. The Ericksons are only one example of the donors who make all the difference in supporting DSU scholarships through dedicated, consistent donations.

“I feel an obligation to help the students,” said Erickson, thinking back on his own memories as a DSU student. A 1962 graduate, Erickson spent his time at DSU as a multi-sport athlete, an opportunity he struggled to find at other institutions. Erickson participated in football, track, basketball, wrestling, and golf. After graduating Erickson worked as a teacher in Rapid City, South Dakota, took a 14-year hiatus to work in various sales positions, and then found his way back to teaching at a middle school in Arizona before retiring in 2002.Erickson values scholarship recipients who demonstrate strong work ethic and a commitment to becoming well-rounded contributors to society. His advice to students is to simply enjoy the college experience, build relationships, and learn to work well with others.

“Roger has a way of making every interaction feel meaningful. His warmth and enthusiasm leave a lasting impression on everyone he meets, and you can feel how much he genuinely cares about the DSU community,” said Ty Orton, DSU HF Executive Director.

Erickson now spends his time perfecting his homemade pizza recipes that he makes to share with participants of the annual DSU HF Arizona Alumni & Friends golf event. Erickson also enjoys reading large books about the US Presidents, historical novels, and biographies. This summer the Ericksons are looking forward to stopping in Dickinson on their way to visit family in Mandan, North Dakota.