Always a Yote: Marcus Destin
It wasn’t until he visited over winter break and received unexpected news that Destin found himself starting his own chapter in Vermillion.
“I received a letter from my university informing me that changes to my grants left me owing about $5,000, and until it was paid, I wouldn’t be able to return to school,” Destin recalled. “So there I was, in South Dakota with only what I had packed in my suitcase and no idea what to do next.”
Destin started working at a chain restaurant in town as he saved for his education, with the intention of returning to the East Coast. As USD employees stopped in for lunch, Destin began developing friendships within the university community. He became increasingly connected and eventually enrolled in a bachelor’s degree program at USD. An internship on campus then led him to a full-time position.
Today, Destin is the assistant director of student activities and multicultural affairs. In his role, Destin helps students build community, get involved and carve their paths at the university.
“I get to watch students grow, gain confidence, discover more about themselves and eventually walk across that graduation stage with pride and purpose, ready to make an impact in the world,” Destin shared. “That’s a hard feeling to beat!”
Beyond his work supporting students, Destin is known for bringing energy and Coyote spirit to everything he does—from serving as an emcee at signature events to hosting games for the South Dakota Coyotes.
Through his career at USD, Destin has presented at national conferences, has established campus traditions such as the Black History Month Game, and was named to USD’s 30 Under 30 list. For Destin, these achievements and commitment to USD are motivated by a desire to give back.
“USD has given me opportunities that I honestly could not have imagined when I first arrived in Vermillion with just a suitcase and a lot of uncertainty about my future,” Destin said. “I want to thank the people who poured into me when I needed it most, even while I was still growing, learning and figuring life out. I hope I can continue doing the same for my students and the communities around me.
“I’ve learned that there are so many ways to give back as an alum even beyond financial contributions, for those that can’t yet,” Destin continued. “You can give back through your energy, by showing up, supporting students, cheering people on, and helping create welcoming spaces and opportunities that inspire others to do the same. That’s how you build a culture. That’s how you build a true Coyote community.”
A Full-Circle Moment: “While a student at USD, I became involved in several student organizations and campus groups, including the Union of African American Students, the Coyote Crazies, campus committees and advisory boards, and even a radio show. One of the coolest full-circle moments has been getting to advise some of the same student organizations I was involved in as a student and now watching those groups continue to grow and flourish through a new generation of leaders.”
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