Gov. Rhoden Mourns Loss of Denny Sanford
PIERRE, S.D. – Today, Governor Larry Rhoden mourned the loss of businessman and philanthropist T. Denny Sanford.
“It is with great sadness that Sandy and I mourn the loss of T. Denny – a man who has so generously and intentionally invested in the great state of South Dakota,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “His contributions will not be forgotten, and South Dakota will forever be impacted by his legacy. Put simply, he was the greatest philanthropist in South Dakota history.”
Sanford gave billions to charitable causes in South Dakota, including:
- Sanford Health, with donations exceeding $1 billion that transformed healthcare delivery throughout the state;
- Sanford Underground Laboratory in Lead, a major state asset in science and education that would not have been possible without Sanford’s support;
- The Build Dakota Scholarships and the Premier/Freedom Scholarship, two significant scholarship programs that have transformed the lives of thousands of young people;
- Sioux Falls Development Corporation, which will make possible the relocation of Smithfield and the redevelopment of the former site; and
- Children’s Home Society of South Dakota, to which Sanford is the largest donor.
“Denny Sanford was a significant donor to practically every charitable campaign in Sioux Falls, and many others throughout the state,” said Lt. Governor Tony Venhuizen. “Beyond his high-profile gifts, Denny was a key reason that Sioux Falls has such a strong culture of philanthropy, and many important community improvements benefited from his support.”
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A man who loved children.
Also a man who loved people with poor credit ratings. First bank credit card, charges up to 80 % interest, $500.00 credit limit with a $200.00 annual fee.
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A man with dual legacies, one he built, and one he bought.
Every billionaire has some corrupt facet he or she doesn’t want in the daylightz. Mr Sanford did a lot of good in this state. We find his name on things that he established, and not on things he stole from others. Rest well sir.
A real philanthropist doesn’t insist his name be placed on everything he to which he donates. A great man doesn’t build tall statues to himself.
Yes, he had an ego that constantly had to be stroked (among other things).
A man mourned by his business partners and the politicians he funded.
A man who proved that if you make enough money, and give sizable amounts to the right people, no one cares how poor your character or vile your actions.