TriBeta Hosts Cookout to Kick Off Year

The TriBeta Biological Honor Society at Dakota State University hosted its annual cookout on Saturday, August 13, at Lake Herman State Park. The event was more than just good food and fresh air; it was a celebration of unity, connection, and community across campus.

The goal of the cookout was to bring people from across DSU together in a comfortable and informal setting. With a “bring a friend” mentality, TriBeta welcomed guests from all different majors and backgrounds. From science professors to computer science students, everyone was invited. “Our ultimate goal was to promote unity among TriBeta, the science faculty, and students from a variety of backgrounds,” said TriBeta President Derek Moreno

Attendance was one of the highest in recent years, with at least 80 people gathering at the lakeside park. This included about 25 international students that TriBeta shuttled in from campus, 25 faculty members and their families, and many other students. Organizers credit the strong turnout to the club’s welcoming approach and commitment to inclusivity.

Guests enjoyed a full cookout spread, featuring burgers, brats, marinated chicken, red rice, veggie burgers, chips, sliced veggies, and even s’mores by the fire. A variety of options ensured that everyone’s dietary needs were met. Against the backdrop of Lake Herman and the setting sun, the atmosphere was relaxed and festive.
For many, the highlight of the evening was the chance to meet new people and strengthen relationships. Students mingled with faculty and their families in a relaxed setting, sharing laughs and stories beyond the classroom. “I loved seeing people interact, laugh, and connect,” Derek reflected. “It was a reminder of how important these moments of community really are — and it showed me that our faculty truly care about us not just academically, but personally as well.”

The cookout was TriBeta’s second major event of the year, following its historic blood drive that helped save 129 lives. Planning the cookout required teamwork, with Vice Presidents Caleb Shaw, Amelie Steins, and Kierra Miller, along with Treasurer Madison Clark, playing key roles. “We could not have pulled it off without supporting one another, the backing of our faculty, and the guidance of our advisor, Dr. Andrew Sathoff,” Derek shared.

Events like this help set the tone for the rest of the school year. “It shows that TriBeta’s goal is to promote unity and connection, not only among students but with staff as well. We are each other’s support system, and it feels amazing to be a part of the sciences at Dakota State University.”

Looking forward, Derek shares how TriBeta hopes to keep building on this momentum with more events and service projects throughout the year. “I hope our next cookout is even larger than the one we held this year. The more people we bring together, the stronger our community becomes.”

While there are GPA and credit requirements for national induction, TriBeta at DSU welcomes everyone to its events — regardless of major, GPA, or status.

If one word could sum up this year’s cookout? Unity.