John Enke was born on November 4, 1986, in Canton, SD, to David and Darla Hermsen Enke. He had a sister named Lyndsi. He attended elementary school in Beresford, SD, and Platte, SD, and graduated as the valedictorian of his class from Platte High School in 2005. During high school, he participated in drama, chorus, and athletics, serving as a co-captain of the football team during his senior year.
He commenced his undergraduate education at South Dakota State University, graduating summa cum laude with a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology in 2009. To fulfill his dream of becoming a doctor, he entered the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota, graduating in 2013. He was poised to commence his residency in Sioux Falls, SD, when his life tragically ended in June 2013.
John was consistently a kind, loving, and caring son and brother. When he became an uncle at an early age, he wholeheartedly devoted himself to his three nieces. His close friends observed a transformation in him during this time as he embraced the responsibilities and mentorship role for these girls and their futures. He consistently championed the underdog and demonstrated empathy, friendship, and compassion in his support for them. He held a close-knit group of interests, including music, movies, video games, sports, food, and good, clean fun.
He frequently expressed how his years at South Dakota State University were among the happiest moments of his life. It is with this sentiment that John Enke's family established the Memorial Fund in his honor. The external influences that shaped his character and nurtured his aspirations were a result of his experiences within his family, high school, and South Dakota State University. These experiences led to his aspiration of becoming a pediatrician. The family's intention is to honor John's memory by providing essential services to students at South Dakota State University who may be affected by mental health issues.
Suicide among young adults/teens is the second leading cause of death within this age group. ** The family and SDSU Counseling Services ** aim to promote access to suicide awareness and prevention for students, ensuring they are aware of the available help and guidance.
🌙 Did you know? Research shows that late night is the highest risk time for suicide attempts (AASM, 2014).
This One Day for State, you can make a difference. By giving just $2.20, you’ll support suicide prevention efforts at SDSU and honor the 2.2% of college students who reported a suicide attempt in the past year.
Even the smallest gift can bring light to someone’s darkest hours. 💙💛
If you or a loved one is struggling with a mental health crisis overnight, please utilize one of these 24/7 supports!
📞 Brookings Behavioral Health: 605-697-2850 (Crisis Line Available)
📞 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text/Chat 988
📞 University Police: 605-688-5117
🏥 Brookings Health System ER: 300 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD
💙💛 You are not alone. If you or someone you know is struggling, help is always within reach.
SDSU students have access to:
📞 Student Health Clinic & Counseling: 605-688-4157
📞 Brookings Behavioral Health: 605-697-2850 (Crisis Line Available)
📞 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call/Text/Chat 988
📞 University Police: 605-688-5117
🏥 Brookings Health System ER: 300 22nd Ave, Brookings, SD
This One Day for State, we’re working to expand suicide prevention and awareness through the John Enke Memorial Fund — so every Jackrabbit knows support is here when it’s needed most. 🌻
289 days ago by Kiana Campbell
John Enke was a proud Jackrabbit — a kind son, brother, uncle, and friend whose compassion touched everyone around him. His life ended too soon in 2013, but his legacy lives on through the John Enke Memorial Fund.
This One Day for State, your gift can support suicide prevention and awareness at SDSU — carrying forward John’s spirit of care and reminding every student: You Matter and are not alone. 💙💛
22 donors unlocks our match challenge! - Donate $2.20 today!
289 days ago by Kiana Campbell
💙💛 We’re here for you, Jackrabbits.
The John Enke Memorial Fund was created to honor John’s life and to strengthen suicide prevention and awareness efforts at SDSU. Our staff is committed to walking alongside students — through challenges, growth, and healing. 🌻
This One Day for State, your support helps ensure that no Jackrabbit struggles alone by expanding vital suicide prevention and awareness resources on campus.
290 days ago by Kiana Campbell
🚨 Challenge Alert! 🚨
2.2% of college students attempted suicide in the last year (ACHA, 2024). To honor and support those students, we’re launching a 22 Donor Challenge during One Day for State!
If 22 people make a gift of any amount, a generous donor will unlock an additional $2,500 for the John Enke Memorial Fund for Suicide Awareness. 💙💛
Your gift — whether it’s $2.20, $22, or any amount that's meaningful to you — helps us reach this goal and expand suicide prevention efforts at SDSU.
✨ Every donor counts. Every gift matters. Help us get to 22!
290 days ago by Kiana Campbell
💙 Today is One Day for State! 💛
Did you know that 2.2% of college students reported a suicide attempt in the past year (ACHA, 2024)?
By donating just $2.20, you can honor yourself, a friend, or a loved one who has struggled thoughts of harm — and directly support suicide prevention efforts here at SDSU.
Every gift, no matter the size, helps us create a safer, more supportive campus community. 🌻
Donate today!
290 days ago by Kiana Campbell
