A Legacy of Leadership in Learning with Judy Olson Duhamel
In the heart of South Dakota, where the values of community, education, and perseverance shine brightly, Judy Olson Duhamel has left an indelible mark. Her induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2014 was not just a recognition of a career well-spent but a celebration of a lifetime devoted to service, education, and advocacy.
Judy joined South Dakota Hall of Fame CEO Laurie Becvar to talk about her life and legacy as a leader in education in South Dakota.
Born in Mitchell in 1939, Judy's early years were marked by a love of debate and student leadership—early indicators of her future as a trailblazer. She pursued higher education at the University of Arizona before embarking on her first teaching role in Minneapolis. But it was in Rapid City, where she returned with her husband, Dr. Bob Olson, that she truly found her calling: to champion education and public service while raising her six children.
Judy shared important life lessons her parents taught her—lessons she then passed on to her children. “A lesson that stuck with me was to remember that when someone disagrees with you, their opinion is also valuable.”
In 1972, Judy’s appointment to the South Dakota State Board of Education was a pivotal moment in her career. Over the next decade, she helped shape the state’s education policies and gained national and international insights through the National Association of State Boards of Education. A transformative trip to Japan in 1978 broadened her perspective, leading her to foster teacher exchange programs and promote cross-cultural understanding in Rapid City schools—efforts that continue to impact families and educators today.
Armed with a master’s degree in Education Administration from South Dakota State University, she pioneered new approaches in adult and community education while working for Rapid City Schools. Recognizing barriers such as childcare and transportation, she created inclusive programs to ensure as many people as possible had access to education. Her innovative work earned her the Adult Educator of the Year Award from the Missouri Valley Education Association.
Her passion for education led her to public service. In 1988, she won a seat in the South Dakota State Senate, where she championed early childhood education and daycare quality standards statewide. Throughout her tenure, she remained steadfast in her belief that education should be a top priority, advocating for policies that would leave a lasting impact on generations to come.
When discussing her work in higher education and government, Judy shared, “I live by, ‘Do what you think is right, and be honest.’” She continued, “It was important for me to talk to and listen to all people, no matter our differences.”
Judy’s influence extended beyond education. As Chair of the South Dakota Democratic Party for eight years, she embraced the challenges of political leadership with the same principles that guided her work in education: fairness, collaboration, and a commitment to the well-being of the people she served. Her bipartisan approach to politics, exemplified by her marriage to Republican Bill Duhamel, reflected her belief that progress transcends party lines.
Even in retirement, Judy remains deeply involved in community initiatives, serving organizations such as Wellspring, the Gwendolyn Stearns Foundation, and Starting Strong, a preschool program dedicated to early childhood development. Her efforts continue to build on her passion to see early education prioritized.
Judy Olson Duhamel’s story is a beacon of inspiration—a reminder that with passion and perseverance, we can make an impact in our community that will last generations.
Learn more about Judy Olson Duhamel by visiting her legacy page here.