Posts Archive - Sanford Health News

Sanford YMCA Bemidji is announced at groundbreaking ceremony

August 19, 2026

Contact:
Jillian Johnson
Media Relations Specialist –Bemidji Region
(218) 333-6090 / jillian.johnson@sanfordhealth.org

BEMIDJI, Minn. – As community leaders gather to celebrate the groundbreaking of a new YMCA in downtown Bemidji, Sanford Health is proud to announce the facility will be named the Sanford YMCA Bemidji in recognition of the health system’s $10 million philanthropic commitment to the project.

The gift is the largest contribution to the project, led by Greater Bemidji and YMCA of the Northern Sky, and reflects Sanford Health’s longstanding commitment to improving the health and well-being of the communities it serves. In recognition of the donation, the facility will bear the Sanford name.

“Today’s groundbreaking is the culmination of years of vision, persistence and partnership,” said Jason Caron, M.D., president and CEO of Sanford Bemidji. “Community leaders came together around a shared vision to restore the heart of the community and create a place where families can gather, children can play and people of all ages can stay active throughout the year.”

The Sanford YMCA Bemidji will offer affordable programs and amenities that support youth development, healthy living and social connection, creating a year-round destination for residents across the Bemidji region.

For more information about Sanford Health, visit sanfordhealth.org.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News. 

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Public celebration honoring Denny Sanford to be held Aug. 29

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – A public celebration honoring the life, philanthropy and legacy of T. Denny Sanford will be held at 2 p.m. on Aug. 29 at the Washington Pavilion.

“A Life of Significance” will celebrate the remarkable life Mr. Sanford lived, the people he inspired and the lasting impact of his vision and philanthropy. The celebration is open to the public, and all are welcome to attend and honor a life that touched countless individuals and communities.

Doors open at 1 p.m. with open seating available in the Mary W. Sommervold Hall. The program begins at 2 p.m. followed by a public reception from 3-4 p.m.

DETAILS

What: T. Denny Sanford Celebration of Life Program

Where: Washington Pavilion, Mary W. Sommervold Hall

When: Aug. 29; 1 p.m. – Doors open; 2 p.m. – Program begins; 3-4 p.m. – Reception

RSVP: Media interested in attending must RSVP to Paul Heinert – paul.heinert@sanfordhealth.org prior to Aug. 29.

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Zach Johnson commits to 2026 Sanford International

Aug. 18, 2026

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / paul.heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Former 2-time major champion Zach Johnson has officially committed to competing in the 2026 Sanford International. The 2023 Ryder Cup captain and PGA TOUR Champions rookie will make his debut at the tournament, taking place Sept. 7-13 at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Johnson, a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, is currently in second place in the Charles Schwab Cup rankings thanks to four victories on TOUR this season (Portugal Invitational, Kaulig Companies Championship, Principal Charities Classic and James Hardie Pro Football Hall of Fame Invitational).

The winner of the 2007 Masters Tournament and the 2015 Open Championship, Johnson was the recipient of the 2020 Payne Stewart Award in honor of his character, sportsmanship and dedication to charitable giving.

Johnson joins a field of top-tier players already announced for this summer’s event, including fellow Sanford International rookies Justin Leonard and Ben Crane. The field also features three World Golf Hall of Fame members in Bernhard Langer, Ernie Els and Retief Goosen – who returns as the 2025 defending champion – along with former Sanford International champions Rocco Mediate, Darren Clarke and Miguel Angel Jimenez. Several of the current top 10 players in the Schwab Cup Standings are committed to play, including Boo Weekley, George McNeill, Els, Clarke and Johnson. Fan favorite John Daly is also set to make an appearance, alongside a deep group of additional major champions, including Mike Weir, Angel Cabrera, David Duval and Y.E. Yang.

The 2026 Sanford International kicks off the Sprint to St. Louis, a new six-event points-based competition spanning the final five events of the 2026 regular season and the first Charles Schwab Cup Playoffs event. The three highest Charles Schwab Cup Points earners among the final five regular-season events will be deemed Finalists for the Sprint to St. Louis presented by Compliance Solutions. The three Finalists will head to the Stifel Charity Classic in St. Louis, Missouri, with a chance to win the contest. The Finalist with the best tournament finish at the Stifel Charity Classic will win the $200,000 prize.

Tickets to the Sanford International, including access to watch the Greats of the Game exhibition, are on sale now at sanfordinternational.com.

Previous Sanford International Winners
2025 – Retief Goosen (-13)
2024 – Steve Stricker (-8)
2023 – Steve Stricker (-16)
2022 – Steve Stricker (-14)
2021 – Darren Clarke (-12)
2020 – Miguel Angel Jimenez (-14)
2019 – Rocco Mediate (-9)
2018 – Steve Stricker (-13)

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 7-13, featuring a $2.2 million purse. In its ninth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Tammy Loosbrock named a top community hospital CEO to know

Contact:
Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-312-4312 / Jon.Berg@SanfordHealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – For the fourth straight year, Becker’s Hospital Review has named Sanford Luverne and Rock Rapids’ Tammy Loosbrock to the 2026 edition of its community hospital CEOs to know.

This list honors community hospital chief executive officers dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable care within their communities. In collaboration with their leadership teams, the list of CEOs continue to develop and execute strategic plans that elevate quality, expand service lines and equip their facilities to deliver exceptional care.

Loosbrock serves as the chief executive officer at Sanford Luverne and Sanford Rock Rapids, serving residents and locals from the surrounding rural areas including clinics in Adrian, Minn., and Edgerton, Minn.

In addition to the locations she serves, Loosbrock is deeply involved in community initiatives. She supports her employees and addresses community needs as an active local daycare board member and volunteers at local schools by mentoring students and promotes healthcare careers. She is also involved in the Luverne Rotary Club and Rock County Food Shelf board.

The full list of individual profiles for all chief executive officer honorees can be found here.   

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Black Hills expands outreach specialty ENT care

RAPID CITY, S.D. — Sanford Health is increasing access to specialty ear, nose and throat (ENT) care through new outreach services provided by Rob Schleiffarth, M.D., a board-certified otolaryngologist serving patients across the Black Hills region.

Dr. Schleiffarth is now traveling to communities in Wyoming and Nebraska to provide specialty ENT care closer to where patients live. Outreach clinic locations include Gillette, Wyoming; Chadron, Nebraska; and Gordon, Nebraska.

Schleiffarth’s outreach schedule includes:

• Gillette, Wyoming, on the first Monday of each month (beginning Sept. 14)
• Chadron, Nebraska, on the second Thursday of each month
• Gordon, Nebraska, on the fourth Tuesday of each month

A trusted name in the Black Hills region, Dr. Schleiffarth practiced at West River ENT at Rapid City Medical Center before joining Sanford Health this spring. He treats allergies, sleep apnea, nasal obstructions and sinus issues and specializes in advanced treatments including the Inspire implant for sleep apnea and the VivAer procedure for nasal obstruction.

By bringing specialty care directly to regional communities, Sanford Health is helping patients access expert ENT services without the need for extended travel, improving convenience and continuity of care across western South Dakota, northeastern Wyoming and northwestern Nebraska.

To learn more or schedule an appointment, visit Sanford Health online or call 605-508-3000.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

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Sanford Fargo to host Doc Talk on plantar fasciitis

Aug. 17, 2026

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Fargo is hosting a Doc Talk discussion to educate the public about plantar fasciitis.

The event is on Wednesday, Aug. 19, from 4:30 to 6 p.m. inside the Fargo Parks Sports Center at the Sanford Sports Complex, 6100 38th St. S., Fargo. There is no cost to attend, but registration is required.

Heel pain from plantar fasciitis can affect everything; from completing your daily routine to participating in your favorite activities. Brad Anderson, DPM, Sanford Health podiatrist, will discuss how planar fasciitis develops, why some people are more susceptible and what treatment options can help relieve pain and restore mobility.

Sanford Health is dedicated to providing the communities it serves with relevant and up-to-date health information. Doc Talk is a free educational series where Sanford physicians present and answer your questions on a wide variety of topics.

To register for the event, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/doc-talk-fargo.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Fargo to host Women’s Social event

Aug. 14, 2026

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Fargo is hosting Women’s Social: A Conversation About Midlife. The event takes place on Sunday, Sept. 13, from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at the Sanctuary Events Center, 670 4th Ave. N., Fargo. The event is open to the community and free to attend.

Tamara Jacobson, MD, board-certified OB/GYN, will share her knowledge about women’s health. A panel of experts will also discuss comprehensive women’s midlife care and how to manage the changes that come with this new phase of life.

The event schedule includes:
• 4 to 5 p.m. – Social and vendor marketplace
• 5 to 6:30 p.m. – Presentation and panel Q & A

Registration is required. To reserve your spot for the event, visit https://www.sanfordhealth.org/classes-and-events/womens-social-events/fargo-9-13-26.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

SDSU to face Green Bay in men’s hoops at Sanford Pentagon

August 13, 2026

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – South Dakota State University and the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay will square off in a men’s college basketball matchup at the Sanford Pentagon on Monday, Dec. 21. Game time and ticket information will be announced at a later date.

“South Dakota State and Green Bay are two outstanding programs with tremendous fan support in the upper Midwest,” said Jesse Smith, vice president of Sanford Sports. “This matchup is an excellent addition to our entire slate of games at the Sanford Pentagon and will provide a great start to the holiday season.”

Green Bay took a tremendous leap during the 2025-26 campaign, improving its win total by 14 games under then 2^nd-year head coach Doug Gottlieb. The Phoenix went 18-15, reaching the 2^nd round of the Horizon League Tournament. This will be Green Bay’s first appearance in Sioux Falls.

“I’ve played, coached, and broadcast from just about every arena in the country, but I have not experienced the Pentagon,” Coach Gottlieb said. “We have great respect for the Jackrabbits and know we are walking into a snake pit, but we want to challenge ourselves – South Dakota State and the Pentagon are just that.”

South Dakota State will be playing a game at the Sanford Pentagon for the 7^th straight season. The Jackrabbits are 10-6 on Heritage Court since 2020 and are led by 2^nd-year head coach Bryan Petersen.

“We are very excited for our game versus Green Bay in the Sanford Pentagon,” Coach Petersen said. “We always enjoy playing in the great city of Sioux Falls in front of our Jackrabbit fans. Green Bay is coming off a strong season under Coach Gottlieb. They’ve got their program going in the right direction and it’s one that is a quality, Midwest opponent. We’re really looking forward to the challenge and seeing all the SDSU blue in the Pentagon.”

This will be the fourth matchup between the Phoenix and Jackrabbits and the first since 2007. Green Bay is 3-0 all-time vs. South Dakota State.

The showdown between South Dakota State and Green Bay is the 10^th Division I basketball matchup the Sanford Pentagon is set to host in the 2026-27 season. The Field of 68 Opening Day Marathon returns Nov. 2 featuring Murray State vs. Tennessee State and UTEP vs. Northern Kentucky in men’s basketball. Later that night, Iowa State and Memphis will square off in prime time. Nov. 11 features Creighton vs. South Dakota women, while Nov. 14 showcases two women’s matchups for the MarketBeat Invitational: Nebraska vs. Kansas and Minnesota vs. Kansas State.

The festivities continue later that weekend on Nov. 15 as Nebraska faces Boise State in men’s hoops. One week later, South Dakota takes on Utah Tech in a men’s matchup on Nov. 22, while the Thanksgiving holiday weekend features Minnesota vs. California in a men’s showdown on Nov. 28.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Tiffany Lawrence named a top community hospital CEO to know

Aug. 13, 2026

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – Becker’s Hospital Review has named Sanford Fargo president and CEO Tiffany Lawrence to the 2026 edition of its community hospital CEOs to know.

This list honors community hospital chief executive officers dedicated to delivering high-quality, affordable care within their communities. In collaboration with their leadership teams, the list of CEOs continue to develop and execute strategic plans that elevate quality, expand services lines and equip their facilities to deliver exceptional care.

“I am honored to be recognized alongside some of the top healthcare leaders in the country,” said Lawrence. “This nomination reflects the dedication of the entire Sanford Fargo team, whose physicians, nurses, caregivers and support staff work together every day to provide world-class healthcare close to home. I am grateful to lead a team that has earned the trust of our community to be there for them when they need us most. We remain committed to expanding access to innovative, high-quality care across the region.”

Lawrence has been with Sanford Health for 30 years, becoming president and CEO in March 2022. She is responsible for overseeing North Dakota’s largest health care provider and employer, managing more than 11,000 employees. As president and CEO, Lawrence has worked with her leadership team to increase access to state-of-the-art health care in the Fargo-Moorhead area and surrounding rural communities by introducing new specialized programs, opening new facilities, having specialty clinicians provide outreach services and adding virtual care options. Under her leadership, Sanford Fargo continues to be home to several unique services and programs in North Dakota, including being home to the only Level I Adult Trauma Center, Level II Pediatric Trauma Center in the state. Sanford Fargo is an Advanced Comprehensive Stroke Center.

The complete list of community hospital CEOs to know can be found here.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Sanford Sports free camps and clinics continue this fall

August 12, 2026

Contact:
David Brown
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / david.brown@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – Since 2025, Sanford Sports Academy has offered more than 20 free camps or clinics in the Fargo, Sioux Falls, and Black Hills areas, impacting more than 3,000 local kids.

The success of these programs will continue this fall and throughout the coming months and years, starting with the Baseball All Skills Clinic on September 20 at the Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls.

In addition to the free camps and clinics, the Sanford Sports Academy has raised more than $40,000 in scholarship funds and granted more than $50,000 in scholarships to 90 athletes over the last two years.

“The goal of Sanford Sports is to create positive experiences for everyone in our communities,” said Todd Kolb, director of the Sanford Sports Academy. “We want to meet kids and parents where they’re at and these free camps and clinics provide opportunities to foster the health and well-being of our local youth.”

More free camp and clinic announcements will be available soon. You can learn more at sanfordsports.com.

About Sanford Sports
Sanford Sports is the modern athletics arm of Sanford Health, the premier rural health system in the United States. Rooted in science and health care, Sanford Sports offers a combination of programs, services, events, facilities and partnerships intended to make active lifestyles accessible and rewarding for people of all ages and abilities. Based on the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Sanford Sports has been changing the way athletes play for 25 years. With operations in three states, more than one million athletes use Sanford Sports facilities each year. Visit sanfordsports.com for more information.

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Sheldon Medical Center receives ‘deficiency free’ survey

Contact:
Jon Berg
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432 / Jon.Berg@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. — Sanford Sheldon Medical Center received a ‘deficiency free’ hospital survey by the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL).

In the state of Iowa, DIAL conducts surveys for critical access hospitals to determine compliance with Medicare conditions of participation (CoPs).

“As one of the largest critical access hospitals in northwest Iowa, Sanford Sheldon takes pride in providing accessible, quality health care for patients in the community and nearby communities,” said Rick Nordahl, administrator and CEO of Sanford Sheldon. The care team we have in Sheldon are a dedicated group of providers and caregivers who put patient safety at the top of each decision they make with their patients and patient families.”

The DIAL surveys ensure critical access hospitals, which are rural, have 25 or fewer inpatient beds and maintain an average length of stay of 96 hours or less. This ensures these hospitals meet federal health, safety and quality standards.

For more information about Sanford Health in Sheldon, visit sanfordhealth.org keyword: Sheldon.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.

Media registration now open for Sanford International

Aug. 7, 2026

Contact:
Paul Heinert
Sanford Health Media Relations
605-366-2432/ paul.heinert@sanfordhealth.org

SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Sanford International is now accepting media credential requests online at pgatourmedia.com for the 2026 event, to be held September 7-13 at Minnehaha Country Club in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

Please submit your outlet’s request for media credentials before Friday, Aug. 28. 

If you have never visited the site before, you will need to first register by creating a username and password. Once you have registered, log in using the username and password you created. On the menu bar at the top of the page, select the “credentials” tab.

Please complete steps 1-4 in order to apply for credentials. Once your credential request has been successfully submitted, you will receive a confirmation email.

Media credentials and parking passes will not be sent by mail. Once your credential request has been approved, you will receive an electronic media gate pass via email in advance of the tournament. The gate pass will allow you to park and access the media center the first day you arrive on-site to pick up your credentials.

MEDIA CENTER: The media center, located in the Minnehaha Country Clubhouse, will be open beginning at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, September 8. There will be a limited number of spaces. These spaces will be assigned to your outlet at the beginning of the week.

If you have any questions regarding the credentialing website, please contact Tracey Veal, Communications Manager, at TraceyVeal@pgatourhq.com.

About the Sanford International
The Sanford International, a PGA TOUR Champions event contested in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, will be played at Minnehaha Country Club the week of September 7-13, featuring a $2.3 million purse. In its ninth year, the Sanford International will continue to focus on charitable giving and making a lasting impact in Sioux Falls. For more information about the tournament, please visit sanfordinternational.com. You can also follow the tournament on social media via Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.

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Sanford International included in new six-event competition

Aug. 5, 2026

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Rapid City, Sanford Health to partner on new sports complex

August 6, 2026

Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun and Rapid City Sports Commission Executive Director Domico Rodriguez today announced a corporate partnership agreement with Sanford Health for naming recognition for the new community sports complex.

Mayor Salamun and Rodriquez were joined by Sanford officials this morning for the partnership agreement announcement. The brief ceremony was held on a strip of frontage land along E. Mall Drive overlooking a 22-acre parcel of land that was recently donated by Pete Lien & Sons and approved by the Rapid City Common Council to serve as the future location for the multi-purpose sports complex.

“I am pleased to announce that Sanford Health will serve as our premier partner, including holding the naming recognition for Rapid City’s new sports complex,” said Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun. “This partnership brings valuable experience and a shared commitment to creating a first-class facility that will serve our youth, residents, and visitors for generations to come.”

The $10 million, 20-year partnership with Sanford Health begins in 2027. The investment will support the new sports complex facility and operations, and provides Sanford with naming recognition for the sports complex and a dedicated space within the complex for use by Sanford for sports medicine, sports academy and sports performance activities, among other recognition rights and privileges.

On most days, these 22 acres of prairie grassland in northern Rapid City sits quiet except for brisk breezes of South Dakota winds and the plodding of nearby cattle herds. In a few years, a large complex will tower over the area, home to numerous competitive and recreational events. Officials are hoping to break ground this fall and get dirt moving for the facility that is set to open by 2029.

The naming rights agreement is the latest in a number of iconic sports, community and regional facilities with the Sanford brand. Sanford has been involved in athletic development for more than 25 years. These efforts include operating the 500-acre Sanford Sports Complex in Sioux Falls and partnering on the 400,000-square foot Fargo Parks Sports Center at the Sanford Sports Complex in Fargo, ND.

“Sanford Health is proud to partner with the City of Rapid City on this historic investment in health, sports and community,” said Kyle Wiese, Sanford Black Hills President and CEO. “When Sanford Health expanded into the Black Hills, we made a commitment to meaningfully invest in the people and communities we serve. This partnership is another example of keeping that promise. Thank you to the City of Rapid City and all those who helped bring this vision to life.”

Sanford Sports operates sports performance, sports academy and sports events in South Dakota, North Dakota and Minnesota. Annually, Sanford Sports has more than one million athlete contacts, runs more than 250 club teams and hosts nearly 100 tournaments and spectator events ranging from youth and high school to major college and professional.

“Sanford’s investment into the complex will help benefit Rapid City and our athletes for the next generation,” said Domico Rodriguez, Rapid City Sports Commission Executive Director. “They have been extremely successful in the Sioux Falls and Fargo markets, and we are excited to partner with them on this project.”

Last month, the Rapid City Council approved an agreement between Pete Lien & Sons and the City of Rapid City for the donation of 22.65 acres of land located between East Mall Drive, Seger Drive, North Lacrosse Street and Tish Boulevard. At the July 20 meeting, the Council also approved a contract with TSP, Inc. to serve as architect for the project and an agreement with Sports Facilities Management LLC to serve as manager for the facility once it is constructed.

Next week, the City’s Legal and Finance Committee will consider the naming recognition agreement as well as an agreement with Scull Construction Service, Inc. to serve as construction manager at risk for the project.

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Sanford Fargo nationally recognized for stroke care

Aug. 6, 2026

Contact:
Nathan Aamodt
Sanford Health Media Relations
(701) 200-6080/nathan.aamodt@sanfordhealth.org

FARGO, N.D. – Sanford Fargo has received the American Heart Association’s Get With The Guidelines® – Stroke Gold Plus quality achievement award for its commitment to ensuring people experiencing stroke receive timely, appropriate treatment based on nationally recognized, research-based guidelines, ultimately helping to save lives and reduce disability.

Stroke is the No. 4 cause of death and a leading cause of disability in the U.S, according to the American Heart Association’s 2026 Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics Report. A stroke occurs when a blood vessel supplying the brain is blocked by a clot or ruptures, preventing blood and oxygen from reaching brain tissue. When this happens, brain cells begin to die. Early detection and rapid treatment are critical to improving survival, minimizing disability and supporting faster recovery.

Get With The Guidelines brings the expertise of the American Heart Association and American Stroke Association into hospitals nationwide, helping ensure patient care is aligned with the latest research- and evidence-based guidelines. Get With The Guidelines – Stroke is an in-hospital program designed to improve stroke care through consistent adherence to these guidelines, which can minimize long-term effects of stroke and help prevent death.

“We are extremely proud to be recognized for our state-of-the-art stroke program at Sanford Fargo,” said Dr. Michael Manchak, Sanford Fargo medical director of the stroke program. “When it comes to diagnosis and treatment for strokes, every second is vital. Our team works quickly and collaboratively to ensure stroke patients receive a timely diagnosis and treatment, which helps lead to more successful outcomes. We remain committed to providing this world-class service close to home.”

Each year, participating hospitals qualify for the award by demonstrating how their organization has committed to providing quality stroke care. In addition to following clinical treatment guidelines, Get With The Guidelines participants also provide education to help people manage their recovery and ongoing health at home.

Sanford Fargo also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Elite Plus award. To qualify for this recognition, hospitals must meet specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment with thrombolytic therapy.

In addition, Sanford Fargo received the American Heart Association’s Target: Stroke Honor Roll Advanced Therapy award by meeting specific criteria that reduce the time between an eligible patient’s arrival at the hospital and treatment to remove the clot causing the stroke.

Sanford Fargo also received the American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes™ Honor Roll award. Target: Type 2 Diabetes aims to ensure patients with Type 2 diabetes, who might be at higher risk for complications, receive the most up-to-date, evidence-based care when hospitalized due to stroke.

About Sanford Health
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the United States, is dedicated to transforming the health care experience and providing access to world-class health care in America’s heartland. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, the organization has 55,000 employees and serves more than 2 million patients and nearly 415,000 health plan members across the upper Midwest including South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wyoming, Iowa, Wisconsin and the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. The integrated nonprofit health system includes a network of 58 hospitals, 289 clinic locations, 145 senior care communities, 4,500 physicians and advanced practice providers and 1,100 active clinical trials and studies. The organization’s transformational virtual care initiative brings patients closer to care with access to nearly 80 specialties. More than 400 residents and fellows are trained each year through graduate medical education with Sanford Health fully funding and supporting 29 of the 40 available programs. Sanford Health also includes 92 retail pharmacies, including Sanford and Lewis Drug pharmacies with locations in 6 states, and more than 300 pharmacists. Learn more about Sanford Health’s commitment to shaping the future of rural health care across the lifespan at sanfordhealth.org or Sanford Health News.