Fund created in honor of Bridget Arens Schumacher

CROFTON, Neb. -- About five months after her unexpected death, the University of South Dakota Foundation & Alumni Association, has named a fund after Bridget Arens Schumacher.

In a Facebook post, University of South Dakota Foundation & Alumni Association said her legacy will live on through the Bridget Arens Schumacher Fund. 

The University said the fund will establish a basketball assistantship with the South Dakota Women's Basketball program. 

"Bridget Arens Schumacher '16 known as a beloved leader, coach and mentor was a guiding force for many," said the University in their Facebook post. "Her leadership transcended the sport of basketball through her unwavering commitment to helping young athletes develop both on and off the court."

Schumacher, of Crofton, unexpectedly died at the age of 30 on Oct. 25, 2024, in Yankton, South Dakota. 

She played basketball for Crofton High School and the University of South Dakota.

In high school, Schumacher led her Crofton team to a 2012 Nebraska C2 State Championship. During her time at USD, she played in every game each season. In the the 2015-16 season she helped her team win the Women's National Invitation Tournament. In her final season with USD, she was South Dakota's Female Scholar-Athlete of the Year, earned South Dakota's Courage Award and she was South Dakota's school record holder for career games played - 137.

To show your support for this initiative, visit Bridget Arens Schumacher Memorial Campaign at givegab.com. As of Mar. 10, 2025, the earned amount was $49,225 of the $100,000, with 18 days left to donate.