2023 Spring/Summer Newsletter

Join Us in Congratulating THE CLASS OF 2023

Each year, up to 10 outstanding South Dakotans are inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame for their achievements that inspire our youth, lead the generations, and build our future. Please join us in congratulating our newest Class to the Hall of Fame whose life works have helped shape South Dakota and our nation for a better tomorrow.

The Inductee Class for 2023 includes the following individuals: Dr. Robert Arnio (Medical), Bruce Bad Moccasin (Business), Walt Bones (Agriculture), Dr. Thomas Dean (Medical), Dr. José-Marie Griffiths (Education), Dr. Pamela Homan (Education), Gary Mule Deer (Arts & Entertainment), Larry Rohrer (Arts & Entertainment), Hani Shafai (Business), and Adam Vinatieri (Sports).

MEET THE CLASS OF 2023

The stories of Inductees are from all corners of the state and differ by gender, race, political orientation, vocation, and avocation. What they have in common is their pursuit and achievements of excellence. Their induction into the Hall of Fame is just the first step in honoring and sharing what they have accomplished.

DR. ROBERT ARNIO A PROFOUND IMPACT ON MENTAL HEALTH

Dr. Robert Arnio helped to craft state and federal legislation to increase the number of qualified mental health providers in South Dakota and he has instructed and mentored medical school students, psychologists, counselors, and teachers throughout his career spanning more than 32 years.

BRUCE BAD MOCCASIN A DEDICATED COMMUNITY BUILDER

Bruce Bad Moccasin’s leadership within the Indian Health Service (IHS) as an engineer, and eventually as Area Director of the Aberdeen Office, allowed him to effectively bring many changes to funding processes for projects important to improving the lives of Native Americans living on reservations.

CHARITABLE GIFT OPPORTUNITIES

The South Dakota Hall of Fame is a nonprofit 501(c)(3), public charity with a mission To Champion a Culture of Excellence in South Dakota and for South Dakota. We are sustained through the generous charitable giving of the public and we welcome your support. Consider honoring one or more of the individuals through your charitable gift. All levels of gifts are welcomed and your name will be included in our 2023 Commemorative Magazine as a supporter if we receive your charitable gift before August 1st

FUND DESIGNATIONS INCLUDE General/Honors Ceremony

Digitizing and Preserving the Collections Endowment Legends & Learning Acts of Excellence

Please specify the Inductee you are honoring or in memoriam information when submitting your gift.

HOW TO GIVE

1) At www.sdhalloffame.org , click GIVE

2) Send a note and payment by check to SD Hall of Fame, 1480 S Main, Chamberlain, SD 57325

3) Call us at 605.234.4216

For more information on giving opportunities, please contact us at info@sdhalloffame.org or call 605.234.4216

Gifts are eligible for tax deduction.

WALT BONES A CARING ADVOCATE FOR AGRICULTURE

From serving as a grade school basketball coach to serving on the Parker School Board and on every agricultural board in S.D. (and even as South Dakota’s Secretary of Agriculture), Bones has been a humble servant leader.

DR. THOMAS DEAN A VOICE FOR RURAL HEALTHCARE

Dr. Thomas “Tom” Dean is a healthcare leader who is not only dedicated to excellent care across the lifespan of patients, he strives toward national policies that can help develop a healthcare system that both responds to both individual needs and underserved areas.

DR. JOSÉ-MARIE GRIFFITHS A POWERFUL LEADER IN HIGHER EDUCATION

The outstanding accomplishments of Dr. JoséMarie Griffiths in the field of higher education are a coalescence of three pillars of professional interaction. She has transformed South Dakota since her arrival to the state in 2015 and moved Dakota State University (DSU) to a new place in the higher education world.

DR. PAMELA HOMAN A DEDICATED ADVOCATE FOR SOUTH DAKOTA EDUCATION

Dr. Pamela Homan has exercised enormous influence on education policy at the local and state levels by focusing on students, technology integration, and strategic community partnerships.

GARY MULE DEER GIVING BACK THROUGH HIS ART

Gary Mule Deer has raised tens of thousands of dollars for South Dakota non-profits including a Spearfish women’s & children’s shelter, the High Plains Western Heritage Center, and Black Hills State University.

LARRY ROHRER A VOICE OF SOUTH DAKOTA

Larry Rohrer’s vision of public media has had an impact on every South Dakota high school, creating ahead-of-itstime coverage of events on the internet, and increased television broadcasts of high school athletics and fine arts.

HANI SHAFAI BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Hani Shafai has worked tirelessly to transform industries and provide sustainable employment and housing opportunities for young professionals entering the workplace and for veterans and vulnerable adults in need of economical housing solutions.

ADAM VINATIERI A CHAMPION FOOTBALL PLAYER EXEMPLIFYING EXCELLENCE

Adam Vinatieri played a total of 24 seasons in the National Football League (NFL) and holds many NFL kicking records; he has also been active in attending football camps for kids (held in both Rapid City and Sioux Falls).

JOIN US FOR THE HONORS CEREMONY

The Class of 2023 will be celebrated at the Honors Ceremony September 8th and 9th, 2023 in Chamberlain/Oacoma. The public is invited to attend. Tickets available online at sdhalloffame.org.

VISITOR & EDUCATION CENTER UPDATES

The South Dakota Hall of Fame Visitor & Education Center has been busy preparing for summer, and we are excited to share that our gift shop has a new look. We hope you stop by and check out our newly updated inventory and take home a bit of inspiration to champion excellence in your own life.

NEW EXHIBIT! THE AMERICAN HIGHLAND CATTLE ASSOCIATION

The American Highland Cattle Association (AHCA) is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the breed, maintaining an American breed registry, and assisting its members in creating value with their animals.

The Scotch Highland Cattle Display at the Visitor and Education Center of the South Dakota Hall of Fame tells the story of the lives of pioneering ranchers in challenging times in our State. It also tells the story of how the American Highland Cattle Association (formally known as the American Scotch Highland Breeders Association) was started by Inductees of the South Dakota Hall of Fame and others and what the Association is about.

A SUCCESSFUL ART SHOW FOR 605 DAY

The South Dakota Hall of Fame’s Visitor & Education Center held an art show showcasing artists across the state in an effort to promote artistic excellence in South Dakota. 20 artists were showcased throughout the month of June. All forms of art–from painting utilizing all mediums including oil, acrylic, pencil, and photography were on display at the Visitor & Education Center.

“As an organization, we celebrate excellence in South Dakota, and we are honored to champion the artistic expression and individuality that exists within our state’s thriving arts community,” said Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar.

On 605 Day, June 5th, an open house was held for the public to gather and appreciate the artistic talent we have in our beautiful state. It was a wonderful turnout and we appreciate all those who were able to attend.

Listen Now

NEW EPISODES COMING SOON

57325. Hours of operation are Monday—Saturday, 9 am—6 pm.

The South Dakota Hall of Fame Legacy Podcast showcases amazing stories about South Dakota Hall of Fame Inductees, Acts of Excellence, and more. These inspirational conversations shine a light on how these individuals and organizations have created amazing opportunities for not just themselves, but for South Dakotans throughout our state. Each interview highlights the power of chasing your dreams.

New episodes of the podcast are produced each year as a new Class is introduced. Be sure to subscribe on your preferred podcast platform for the latest updates and interviews.

The Visitor & Education Center is located at 1480 S. Main Street, Chamberlain, SD

Photos courtesy of: Aerial 605

Scan the QR code above to listen to the latest episodes of the Legacy Podcast.

INDUCTEE UPDATES

Full articles can be found on our website sdhalloffame.org/news

High-Level Praise for “...America’s Boldest Orchestras”

South Dakota Hall of Fame 2020 Inductee Delta David Gier lifts the South Dakota Orchestra to a national stage with his ambitious effort to meld orchestral styles with traditional Native songs and ceremonies, impressive background as a former New York Philharmonic assistant conductor, and a conviction that an orchestra should serve its unique community uniquely.

Creating a Legacy of Giving Back to South Dakota

Dr. Charles (2022 Inductee) and Kathie Hart have given back to South Dakota in more ways than one, and their devotion to continue giving back isn’t stopping any time soon. With donor-advised funds supporting projects and organizations they are passionate about, the Harts are creating a philanthropic mindset for their children and future generations of their family.

2023 HONORS CEREMONY

September 8th and 9th, 2023 in Chamberlain/Oacoma

Tickets available at: SDHALLOFFAME.ORG

South Dakota News Watch

DELTA DAVID GIER

South Dakota Community Foundation

DR. CHARLES HART

Share your news with us on the South Dakota Hall of Fame Facebook page or by getting in touch with us at info@sdhalloffame.org.

First Dakota Bank CEO Retires After 40 Years

South Dakota Hall of Fame 2012 Inductee Larry Ness retired from his position as CEO of First Dakota Bank in January. While he reflects on the accomplishments and impact made during his nearly 50 years in business, his talent and knowledge will continue to serve as chairman of the board–a position he has held since 1996.

POET Provides $10,000 Grant to Update Legends & Learning Program for South Dakota Youth

In March, POET (founded by 2017 Inductee, and POET CEO, Jeff Broin) provided the South Dakota Hall of Fame funding through its Gives Back Grant Program. This base financial support will be used to update the Legends and Learning Program, as well as provide the funds needed to continue building curriculum and classroom lessons that share the rich stories of its Inductees to inspire future generations of South Dakota leaders.

South Dakota Hall of Fame

WATCH ONLINE TODAY!

LEGACY VIDEO INTERVIEWS

Legacy Video Interviews are a powerful way to capture the inspiring stories of Inductees to be shared for generations. These interviews can be found on Inductee’s Legacy of Achievement pages, website or YouTube.

SDHALLOFFAME.ORG/LEGACIES-OF-ACHIEVEMENT

Yankton Daily Press & Dakotan

LARRY NESS

JEFF BROIN

Acts of Excellence Spotlight

Every day, South Dakotans do extraordinary things. The Acts of Excellence (AOE) program, sponsored by Sanford Health, recognizes the individuals and organizations who are building a culture of excellence in South Dakota, one act at a time. This year, 15 organizations/individuals have been chosen for their Acts of Excellence.

QUILTS OF VALOR, FLAG MOUNTAIN HONOR GUARD

The Flag Mountain Honor Guard presents over 20 quilts each year. The South Dakota Hall of Fame paid special tribute to Ardys Roseland for her long-standing membership in the group and for making the most quilts, as well as recognizing co-leaders Barb Vankeerbrook and Charlene Sundstrom.

ROCK SCHOOL MUSIC PROGRAM

The Rock School Music Program in Rapid City received an Acts of Excellence Award for its work for over 20 years in music. South Dakota Hall of Fame Board Director Brad Haupt presented the award to Scott Miller, owner of the Rock School. The program started as a part-time, afterschool program for students ages 8–18 and has since grown into a year-round program.

MOOSE LODGE OF RAPID CITY

South Dakota Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar and Board Director Brad Haupt presented the Moose Lodge of Rapid City with its prestigious Acts of Excellence Award for their work with bringing Hot Wheels fun to people of all ages and donating proceeds to other great causes in the community. Mr. Tim West, President of the Moose Lodge Board of Directors accepted the award on behalf of the Moose Lodge, and Mr. Buck Nelson and his wife were recognized and thanked for spearheading the project.

COMMUNITY OF NEWELL

The community of Newell received an Acts of Excellence Award for rallying around a victim of a house fire. When Dave Nuenke lost his home to fire on a cold, February morning, the community of Newell came to his rescue. An outpouring of care came from neighbors and friends, which included getting Dave into a new home promptly with heat, stove, and a refrigerator. People brought food and supplies and ensured his needs were met.

VETERANS HONOR GUARD OF SPEARFISH

The South Dakota Hall of Fame recognized the Veterans Honor Guard of Spearfish with a 2023 Acts of Excellence Award celebrating the stellar work of the group. This past year, the Guard provided honors at 85 funerals and 28 additional events. Total volunteer time for the group last year equaled 1,945 hours.

Pictured (left to right): Barb Vankeerbrook, Ardys Roseland, SD Hall of Fame Board Director Gerry Likness, and Charlene Sundstrum

Pictured (left to right): Scott Miller, owner of Rock School Music Program and SD Hall of Fame Board Director Brad Haupt

Pictured (left to right): SD Hall of Fame Board Director Brad Haupt, Moose Lodge of Rapid City Board President Tim West, and SD Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar

Pictured (left to right): Tara Tennis and Deb Steele, administrative assistants at the Belle Fourche Irrigation District, and SD Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar

Veterans Honor Guard of Spearfish pictured with SD Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar

VETERANS HONOR GUARD OF STURGIS

The Veterans Honor Guard of Sturgis received a 2023 Acts of Excellence Award celebrating the exceptional work of the group—providing honors for 5,365 funerals. The organization was established in 1948 and has been active ever since.

MR. MATT COLLINS OF KENNEBEC & LYMAN COMMUNITIES

Mr. Matt Collins is currently the leader of the Kennebec Telephone Company, a company that is deeply rooted in serving the community beyond their daily business activities. The company, and Mr. Collins, as its leader, believe in giving back and he encourages the same behavior of his staff. Service to others comes naturally to Mr. Collins—it is never a forced action; service comes straight from the heart, and it is done with a smile, giving nothing less than 100% of himself.

MR. KEITH PATRICK OF VIVIAN

Mr. Keith Patrick’s service to his community goes back over 40 years, and he has been giving back to the Vivian area regularly ever since. Mr. Patrick’s extensive volunteerism and contribution of his personal talents made him most deserving of the 2023 Acts of Excellence Award. He has been known to share his talents with individuals, businesses, and organizations whenever he is called upon–rain or shine. Mr. Patrick has built a reputation of “being a man who can fix anything, anytime.”

HOPE, HEALING, AND HOOFPRINTS MINISTRY

The South Dakota Hall of Fame recognized Jo Vitek, President of Hope, Healing, and Hoofprints (Triple H) Ministry at Joy Ranch in Florence for her work in helping children in South Dakota heal through equine experiences from sexual abuse. Laurie Becvar, CEO of the South Dakota Hall of Fame and Board Directors Gerry Likness and Mike Cartney presented the organization with a 2023 Acts of Excellence Award at Joy Ranch. Special tribute was also paid to Joy Nelson, founder and owner of Joy Ranch.

STAVIG HOUSE MUSEUM

An Acts of Excellence Award was presented to the Board of Directors of the Stavig House Museum for their historical venue. The house combines elements of Victorian-era and Arts & Crafts-style architecture, and is listed on the National Historic Register. The museum tells the story of a Norwegian immigrant family through three generations—from fishermen in Norway, to homesteaders on the Dakota prairie, to main street entrepreneurs in the new town of Sisseton.

An exhibit of each 2023 Acts of Excellence recipient will be on display at the South Dakota Hall of Fame’s Visitor and Education Center in Chamberlain this summer. Follow us on Facebook and visit our website as we announce the remaining Acts of Excellence for 2023!

ACTS OF EXCELLENCE PROGRAM IS SPONSORED BY SANFORD HEALTH

Veterans Honor Guard of Sturgis pictured with SD Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar.

Pictured (left to right): Matt Collins and SD Hall of Fame Board Director Erica Peterson

Pictured (left to right): Keith Patrick and SD Hall of Fame Board Director Erica Peterson

Photo (left to right): CEO Laurie Becvar and Board Director Gerry Likness (SD Hall of Fame), President Jo Vitek (Triple H Ministry), Board Director Mike Cartney (SD Hall of Fame), Board Director Julianne Endres (Triple H Ministry), Kristen Henderson (Watertown Community Foundation), and Joy Nelson (owner and founder of Joy Ranch)

Photo (left to right): Stavig House Museum Board Director Jane Rasmussen, SD Hall of Fame Board Director Gerry Likness, Stavig House Museum Board President John Rasmussen, and Stavig House Museum Board Directors Yvonne Hippen and Kay Nikolas

SOUTH DAKOTA HALL OF FAME

1480 S. Main Street

Chamberlain, SD

SDHALLOFFAME.ORG

Save The Date

2023 HONORS CEREMONY

Location: Chamberlain/Oacoma

This weekend is full of special events held at the South Dakota Hall of Fame Visitor & Education Center (VEC), as well as the Arrowwood Cedar Shore Resort (ACSR). A full schedule of events can be found on our website SDHALLOFFAME.ORG.

FRIDAY, SEPT. 8, 2023

Public Grand Opening, 5:30 - 7pm | Free to attend at the VEC

SATURDAY, SEPT. 9, 2023

Brunch and Inductee Panel Discussion, 10am - noon |

Ticketed event at the ACSR

Anniversary Reunion, 1:30 - 3 pm | Free to attend at the VEC

Honors Banquet, 5:30 - 8:30 pm | Ticketed event at the ACSR

Explore our directory of 770+ Inductees, read stories on everyday Acts of Excellence, watch inspiring videos, listen to our Legacy Podcast and so much more on our website.

SDHALLOFFAME.ORG