On Tap: Community Legacy

XIX Brewing Company Team

A pair of passionate alumni and current staff from the University of South Dakota have come together to establish XIX Brewing Company in Vermillion. This business not only aims to deliver high-quality, locally brewed beers but also seeks to strengthen the bond between the university and the surrounding community.

Founders Ed Gerrish and Katey Ulrich, both proud USD alumni, bring a unique blend of educational backgrounds and Coyote spirit. With a shared vision of bringing the community together and celebrating South Dakota pride, they have embarked on this exciting journey to create a space that reflects the spirit of both the university and the town.

"We really envisioned the space as a community space, and a place for people to come connect, which is why our tagline is 'Good Beer. Better Company.," Ulrich said. "So, actually seeing that come to life is beautiful."

"I have been homebrewing for 15 or 16 years, so when the opportunity to partner with Katey came about, it just made sense," Gerrish said. "The brewery, to me, is about contributing to the community that we both love and appreciate."

XIX, named after the "19" that starts all Clay County license plates, is dedicated to hosting events, tastings, and supporting students. They are equally committed to the quality of the beer they create for customers.

One brew, the Coyote Legacy Blonde Ale, will be ready just in time for the 2024 Dakota Days celebration. This clean, easy-drinking beer boasts a fitting red color derived from fruits and vegetables used in the brewing process.

XIX Brewing Company Ribbon Cutting

"The collaboration between XIX and USD was a no-brainer for us," Gerrish said. "Coyote Legacy is intended to bring people back to their days at USD and reminisce about the friends and memories they made," Ulrich added.

In addition to fostering connections, a portion of the proceeds from Coyote Legacy Blonde Ale will support student scholarships - something both Gerrish and Ulrich hold dear.

"I know first-hand how impactful donations are to student experiences at USD," Gerrish said. "Often donations that have few restrictions mean that faculty and staff can brainstorm some great experiences for students and I'm happy I might be able to contribute my small part to that through this beer."

As business and partnerships ramp up for the XIX team, they offer key advice for fellow and future alumni hoping to find that same success.

"Both Ed and I surrounded ourselves with a good team, and combined with our passion for Vermillion and USD, we knew this idea and business would thrive," Ulrich said. "It's vital to be confident in what you bring to the table while being open to learning new things."

"We hope people think of XIX and Coyote Legacy as more than just a brewery and a beer," Gerrish said. "If you see someone drinking the red beer at the local watering hole, strike up a conversation about USD, knowing you're supporting student scholarships and enhancing student experiences."

For more information about XIX Brewing Company and their mission to give back, visit xixbrewingco.com.