Bourbon and Brews 2026
Northern State University Athletics and the Wolves Club hosted the fourth annual Bourbon & Brews athletic scholarship fundraiser on Friday, April 24, at the Barnett Center and Dacotah Bank Stadium, bringing together alumni, fans, community members, and supporters for an evening dedicated to NSU student-athletes.
This year’s event featured several new additions, including the inaugural Football Showcase on Thares Field, where guests received a first look at the 2026 Wolves Football team during a live scrimmage-style showcase. The evening also included more tasting options and entertainment than ever before, featuring over 30 bourbons, 70 wines, beers, and ready-to-drink cocktails, the popular NSU Speakeasy experience, a silent auction, raffles, games, and a Bourbon Derby competition. Guests enjoyed 12 snack stations hosted by local food trucks, restaurants, and catering companies.
One of the highlights of the evening was the involvement of Northern student-athletes and coaches, who welcomed guests, helped conduct games, directed attendees throughout the venue, and even shuttled guests to and from the NSU Speakeasy in golf carts. Their energy and appreciation helped create a fun and memorable experience for everyone in attendance.
Proceeds from Bourbon & Brews directly support student-athlete scholarships at Northern State University, helping provide championship opportunities and life-changing experiences for Wolves student-athletes. NSU Athletics and the Wolves Club extend their sincere thanks to all sponsors, volunteers, donors, and attendees who helped make this year’s event another tremendous success.
About Northern State University
Northern State University is a student-centered institution that provides an outstanding educational experience, preparing students through the liberal arts and professional education for their future endeavors. A regional university, Northern offers rigorous academics; diverse civic, social and cultural opportunities; and a commitment to building an inclusive environment for all points of view. Northern also offers a broad-based athletics program, sponsoring 15 NCAA Division II intercollegiate varsity sports that compete in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (NSIC). The university strives to enrich the community through partnerships such as its Educational Impact Campaign, which opened a new South Dakota School for the Blind and Visually Impaired; new athletic and recreation fields; and an on-campus regional sports complex. With the $55 million campaign, NSU has been the recipient of more than $150 million in privately funded building projects and scholarships within a decade. To learn more, visit NSU Admissions.