Nick Kotzea
Nick Kotzea is an Associate Director of Development for the University of South Dakota Foundation. Nick's primary areas of emphasis include securing major gifts for the College of Arts & Sciences and the School of Law. He also works with individuals and entities interested in planned and annual giving to the University. Nick's work involves heavy interaction with a thoughtful, generous and diverse network of alumni whose support remains a crucial component of USD's sustained commitment to offer affordable, top-notch academic opportunities.
A native of Milbank, S.D., Nick harbors an intimate appreciation for the profound impact of alumni giving. He first came to USD in the fall of 2000 as an undergraduate student and recipient of the generous Al Neuharth Scholarship for Excellence in Journalism. Throughout his undergraduate career, Nick ascended to many leadership roles, including that of managing editor, at USD's student newspaper, The Volante. The Neuharth Scholarship allowed Nick to graduate in 2004 with a Bachelor of Science degree in Contemporary Media & Journalism. With no student loan debt impeding his path, Nick went on to earn his Juris Doctor degree from the USD School of Law, becoming the first person in his family to earn a professional degree.
In 2008, Nick became a licensed member of the State Bar of South Dakota. For three years, in both Pierre, S.D., and Sioux Falls, S.D., he served as an attorney for the South Dakota Department of Revenue, dedicating much of his time to the litigation of state tax matters and Division of Motor Vehicles issues. Despite a healthy foundation of legal experience, the opportunity to serve his alma mater proved too enticing, and in September 2011, Nick joined the foundation and began focusing his advocacy talents toward enriching the lives of current and future USD students.
Nick Kotzea
College of Arts & Sciences
University of South Dakota Foundation
P.O. Box 5555
Vermillion, SD 57069-5555
Direct: 605-670-4256
Nick.Kotzea@usdfoundation.org
