The Distinguished Alumnus Award is presented to a person whose dedication to their community, country, and their profession is an inspiration to Dakota State University students and alumni. Today, we are pleased to recognize Mr. Arnold Fockler, Class of 1967.

A native of Colton, SD, Arnold Fockler graduated from Dakota State University in 1967 with a bachelor's degree in mathematics. He earned a master's degree in mathematics from the University of South Dakota in 1968. Upon graduation, Arne Fockler became an associate programmer for IBM Development Laboratory in Rochester, MN.

In 1970, Mr. Fockler took a leave of absence from IBM to serve with the US Navy. He was awarded the Navy Commendation medal for his software development work.

In 1973, Arne returned to IBM as a systems programmer. He held a variety of increasingly responsible management positions over the next several years. From 1994 until his retirement from IBM in 1999, he provided training to IBM managers across the United States through the IBM Leadership Development in Atlanta, GA.

Mr. Fockler currently operates Fockler Consulting which provides technology planning, implementation and support. The firm works exclusively for non-profit agencies and does much of it's work at cost or for free. Arne and his wife, Kay, have been active with Arc Southeastern Minnesota, an agency that fosters inclusion for people with developmental disabilities, for over thirty years. They have been recognized with numerous awards for their work, including the Rochester Mayor's award for community service.

Arne and Kay reside in Rochester. They have two sons, a daughter, and two grandchildren.

Dr, Knowlton, on behalf of the faculty, staff, students, and alumni of Dakota State University, I commend to you Mr. Arnold H. W. Fockler to receive the Distinguished Alumnus Award.