The city of Dickinson’s annual “Brand a Stand” competition brought a refreshing mix of business savvy and Blue Hawk pride this year, thanks to a brother-sister duo who turned their love for community and creativity into a sweet success.
Beckett and Harper Crossingham were inspired by Dickinson State University to launch the Blue Hawk Snack Shack, a spirited lemonade stand built on school pride and entrepreneurial drive.
“I wanted to try something cool for the Brand a Stand event,” Beckett said. “Selling lemonade for the Blue Hawks sounded awesome.”
Hosted each year by the Dickinson Chamber of Commerce, Brand a Stand encourages young entrepreneurs to team up with local businesses, pitch their ideas, and create one-of-a-kind lemonade stands. The program promotes financial literacy, marketing skills, and community partnership among local youth.
Beckett Crossingham took the lead on the project, calculating startup costs, budgeting for ingredients, cups and supplies, and preparing a full business proposal. He then presented it to Ty Orton, executive director of the DSU Heritage Foundation, with a plan to host the stand at the foundation’s location. As part of the partnership, 50 percent of the Crossingham’s earnings would be donated to the foundation, with DSU HF agreeing to match that donation up to a set amount.
“Having a young entrepreneur focus on giving back is a powerful way to educate others about the importance of community involvement,” said Orton. “This business plan demonstrates how a venture can be both profitable and transformative in the lives of others. We’re proud of what he has created and honored that he wants DSU to benefit from his efforts.”
On Saturday, July 26, the Crossingham siblings opened the Blue Hawk Snack Shack. They offered three lemonade flavors, each named with DSU flair: the Original Blue Hawk Squeeze, a classic lemonade; Blue Hawk Blitz, a blueberry twist; and Hawk Pride Pink, a sparkling raspberry version. For those wanting a little extra kick, the Talon Tornado blended any of the lemonades into a frosty treat.
In addition to lemonade, the stand featured cookies with names that celebrated DSU spirit. Customers could enjoy the Blue Hawk Classic, a chocolate chip favorite; White and Gold Wings, a white chocolate macadamia cookie; and the Frosty Feather Sandwich, a sugar cookie frosting sandwich that was especially popular on the warm summer day.
To add to the fun, Beckett and Harper also hosted a coloring contest for customers, creating a welcoming atmosphere that brought families and fans together.
Through hard work and heart, the Crossingham duo offered more than just snacks. They served a generous helping of school pride, community connection and youthful ambition. Their stand may have lasted just one day, but its impact and their enthusiasm left a lasting impression.