Brookings, S.D. — The newly renovated Thompson Center at South Dakota State University is more than a building. It’s a bold step forward for mental health education in South Dakota. Schemmer is proud to have played a key role in transforming the former Wintrode Student Success Center into the state’s most comprehensive counseling education facility.

About Thompson Center

Unveiled in October 2024 and supported by $1.25 million in private donations, the Thompson Center now serves as the learning and training hub for SDSU’s counseling and human resource development programs. It’s currently the university’s largest graduate program with more than 160 students.

Schemmer’s multidisciplinary team, led by project manager Randy Gunnink, worked alongside SDSU to reimagine the space for high-impact learning and training. The result is a modern, flexible facility designed to match the depth and rigor of the academic program.

“This project has made a significant impact on students in SDSU’s counseling and human resource development programs,” Gunnink said.

“They now have access to a state-of-the-art, technology-enhanced training environment designed to equip them with the latest techniques in clinical and mental health counseling, preparing them to effectively support their future patients.”

The Thompson Center features:

• Seven specialized counseling recording rooms, including rooms designed for play therapy, couples/family counseling and group sessions
• Advanced digital infrastructure that enables real-time session recording and analysis for students and faculty
• An active learning classroom with mobile furniture for collaborative instruction and speaker events
• A sound-masking “white noise” system to support confidentiality and comfort throughout the facility

Among Gunnink’s favorite elements is the transformation of a former church sanctuary into a light-filled, versatile training space.

“This renovation introduced abundant natural light and adaptable configurations, fostering both collaboration and flexibility.”

In addition to architectural updates, Schemmer modernized the building’s infrastructure through:

• Mechanical engineering upgrades to improve system efficiency and comfort
• Electrical system enhancements to support increased technology demands
• Integration of advanced technology infrastructure for instructional and clinical use

These updates ensure the facility is not only functional but future ready. The space now supports advanced technology and meets the evolving needs of a hands-on, research-informed counseling education.

For Gunnink, the project holds personal meaning as well.

“Throughout my career, I have had the opportunity to work on numerous clinical mental health facilities. With my wife being a social worker, I feel a deep connection to this profession, which fuels my commitment to delivering the best possible solutions for those struggling with mental health challenges and in need of vital counseling resources.”

Strategically located near the Fishback Center for Early Childhood Education, the building also supports play therapy and mental health services for children, further strengthening campus and community ties.

With thoughtful design, intentional academic integration, and modern infrastructure, the Thompson Center sets a new standard for counseling education in South Dakota — empowering students to thrive today and serve others tomorrow.

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