Tom Loveland EROS Geography Scholarship

The Legacy of Tom Loveland

Tom Loveland was born June 22, 1952, to Jack and Rosalie Loveland in Saint Paul, MN. After graduating from O’Gorman High School in Sioux Falls, SD, he attended South Dakota State University, where he earned a degree in geography. He completed an MS in geography at SDSU and a Ph.D. in geography at the University of California, Santa Barbara.

Tom married his high school sweetheart, Cam, in 1974, later sharing their lives with their two children, Shannon and Bill.

Tom was a pioneer in geographic remote sensing. He led a distinguished career with the U.S. Geological Survey in the study of land use and land change, with projects spanning the globe and guiding the management of economic security, environmental health, and natural resources. He was the recipient of numerous awards, most notably the Pecora Award in 2019, for his outstanding contributions to earth science as a leading scientist for the USGS and as chief scientist at the USGS Earth Resources Observation and Science Center (EROS), along with his 2018 induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame.

Perhaps his most significant impact was as leader of the International Geosphere-Biosphere Program Global Land Cover Initiative, where he pioneered remote sensing for global land cover mapping. The results of that effort continue to be used to address global environmental challenges.

Tom was passionate about many things in life: his work, his family, traveling, cooking, and Twins baseball, among others.

The most important reason for his success was the support of his family – especially his wife, Cam, and his children. They were always his motivation. Tom attributes success first and foremost to teamwork. The key to understanding and managing our changing earth is an overachieving team with a perspective of the relevant issues, a willingness to live outside their comfort zone, and the recognition that the status quo is not the solution.

Tom’s commitment to the world of geography will continue to evolve with his legacy for generations to come.

Tom Loveland EROS Geography Scholarship

The EROS Scholarship in the Department of Geography was first established in 2001 by Tom. The scholarship has been supported through annual gifts made by EROS employees ever since. Following the passing of Tom Loveland, EROS colleagues collectively decided it would be an honor to name the scholarship after the geography visionary himself, and the Tom Loveland EROS Geography Scholarship was created.

Our Goal

Our goal is to raise a minimum of $50,000 to endow the Tom Loveland EROS Geography Scholarship, ensuring the scholarship will continue in perpetuity as a way to honor Tom’s immeasurable contribution and impact on the geography community. Our hope is that Tom’s passion is inspirational to those in a similar field of study that will follow.

About Endowments

Endowments permanently preserve the legacy of giving and provide continuous support to students. Endowments allow you to make an impact now and in the future. Your gift to support the Tom Loveland EROS Geography Scholarship will:

• Provide a $2,000 annual scholarship award, ensuring consistent scholarship support for current and future Jackrabbits.
• Elevate the reputation of academic excellence at SDSU.