South Dakota bank sponsoring high school events

Northwestern Financial Review, Sep 1-Sep 14, 2002 by Dullum, Justin

In 1999, the South Dakota High School Activities Association encountered funding problems and began searching for private sponsors. They found one in CorTrust Bank, which is headquartered in Sioux Falls.

"South Dakota is like a lot of places in that funding for extra curricular activities is getting cut," said Dody Hopkins, CorTrust's marketing director. "Other states have used corporate sponsors. South Dakota finally came to need it."

Besides Burger King, CorTrust was the only corporation to honor the association's request. The bank, which has a presence in 17 South Dakota communities, donates thousands of dollars used to fund athletic tournaments, the arts or "any program that high school kids engage in after class," Hopkins said.

In addition to funding, CorTrust employees volunteer at various events. "They run stands and sell popcorn. They fill in those little gaps that are hard to fill," Hopkins said.

"The program has been a tremendous success," said Jack Hopkins, Mitchell, S.D. branch manager. "We think it's important that we give back to the communities we do business in. The opportunity to take part in a state-wide program was right in line with our goals."

The SDHSAA receives no state funding and instead is fueled by member fees, television rights fees, ticket sales and corporate sponsorship.

"We've been active participants in the support of youth programs throughout the state for years, so this just seemed a natural extension of our support for students," said Boyd Hopkins, president of CorTrust.

The sponsorship is healthy for both organizations. CorTrust gains exclusivity for such items as signage at the tournaments, scoreboard and PA announcements, plus program advertising.

CorTrust's advertising currently features pro basketball player, Orlando Majic forward, Mike Miller. The bank is using his image on signage in conjunction with its slogan "South Dakota to the Cor."

Miller, a native of Mitchell, was ranked third in scoring among rookies in the NBA last season.

"Mike has great character. The image he portrays is in line with what we want to convey," said Dody Hopkins.

Miller has an account at CorTrust. The relationship, said Dody Hopkins, has been ongoing. Miller's family has long been friends of the bank.

By Justin Dullum