PIERRE, S.D. – The Build Dakota Scholarship Program recognized Scott Knuppe for his
contributions to the Build Dakota Administration Board and welcomed Tenise Chapman as its
newest member during the August board meeting.
Knuppe’s board service concluded on June 1, 2026, coinciding with his retirement from
Caterpillar in Rapid City. 
“For the past 11 years, Scott has been an important part of the Build Dakota Administration
Board,” said Dana Dykhouse, chair of the board. “His industry knowledge, connections and
commitment helped guide the program as it grew and expanded its impact across South Dakota.
We wish him the very best in retirement, and we are pleased to welcome Tenise to the board.”
Gov. Larry Rhoden appointed Chapman to succeed Knuppe on the Build Dakota Administration
Board, which brings together community and industry leaders from across South Dakota.
Chapman and her husband, Weston, are Western Dakota Technical College alumni and co-
owners of Black Hills Tire in Rapid City. She has helped lead the company’s commitment to
community involvement, guided by her belief that a successful business should strengthen the
community it serves.
A strong advocate for technical education, Chapman also serves on the Western Dakota
Technical College Board of Trustees. She founded Camp DRIVE, a first-of-its-kind automotive
camp that introduces youth ages 12 to 15 to automotive careers.
Recently named a finalist for the Women in Auto Care Shop Owner of the Year from more than
100 nominees nationwide, Chapman brings experience in business, education and workforce
development to the board.
ABOUT BUILD DAKOTA
Since 2015, the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund has awarded more than 4,000 scholarships to
students pursuing high-need programs at South Dakota’s technical colleges. The scholarship
covers tuition, fees, books and other related expenses. Recipients commit to working in South
Dakota in their field of study for at least three years after graduation.

A 2025 economic impact study conducted by the Dakota Institute found that Build Dakota
generated an estimated $235.28 million in total economic output during its first decade. The
program also supported the creation of 3,218 jobs and contributed $145.7 million to South
Dakota’s gross domestic product.
Build Dakota was established through a $25 million gift from the late T. Denny Sanford and a
matching contribution from the South Dakota Future Fund under former Gov. Dennis Daugaard.
Their partnership created a lasting investment in South Dakota students, technical education and
workforce development.