Inspiring Inductees: Celebrating National Disability Awareness Month
Did you know that March is National Disability Awareness Month? We are honored to share the legacies of a diverse group of Inductees. Whether living with a disability or advocating for those who do, these Inductees have made a positive impact on South Dakota in a myriad of ways.
These individuals have facilitated inclusion and created accessibility, beautiful art, and safe spaces within the state. Scroll down to read about just some of the many people who have championed a culture of excellence for all in South Dakota.
Melvin Hanthorn (1924–2010) | Watertown, SD
Despite facing personal hardships after an accident in 1979, Melvin Hanthorn lived a life dedicated to helping individuals with disabilities of all kinds live better lives. Melvin carved and distributed over 1,760 diamond willow and spiral canes to individuals in need, free of charge. These canes were distributed at Mayo Clinic, numerous Parkinson's Disease Support Groups, and individually to anyone who requests a cane for themself or a loved one. Another direct impact Melvin made is through his work with Parkinson's Support Groups, as well as having a tremendous impact on the lives of young mentally, and physically disabled children by supporting the Watertown Camp Courage. Learn more about Melvin’s impact on his legacy page here.
Joy Nelson | Watertown, sd
With a passion for horses, and for giving back, 2016 Inductee Joy Nelson helped create a true haven in South Dakota for people with disabilities. She donated her beloved 100-acre ranch to Lutherans Outdoors of South Dakota and has been a force in raising the money to build Joy Ranch, a camp resembling an Old-Western Main Street for the estimated 48,000 young people and adults in the region with special needs. Since 2012 when the camp opened, more than 10,000 people annually enjoy the atmosphere that the ranch staff, animals, and surroundings provide. While it is aimed at people with disabilities, it is available for everyone. Learn more about Joy Nelson on her legacy page here.
Ron Reed | Rapid City, SD
The impact of Ronald Reed’s work can be felt all across the state, from Vermillion to Pierre to the Black Hills. For over five decades, Dr. Reed has worked tirelessly and behind the scenes to enrich the lives, not only of individuals with special needs but of all South Dakotans. Governor Richard Kneip described Dr. Ron Reed as “a visionary in terms of identifying and dealing with the challenges and problems in education.” He served at a pivotal moment in the national fight for disability rights as he advocated for and led the state’s implementation of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the first disability civil rights law to be enacted in the United States. Learn more about Ron Reed and his impact on his legacy page here.
Calvin schultz (1926–2004) | mitchell, SD
Calvin Schultz, perhaps best known for his 25 years of drawing murals for the Corn Palace, was raised on a farm near Mitchell. As a child of 18 months, he was stricken with polio, which paralyzed his right leg and weakened his right arm. In 1977, Cal was asked to sketch designs for the Corn Palace, a task he continued for more than 25 years. Calvin demonstrated creativity, talent, and determination throughout his lifetime, never allowing his disability to overwhelm his life. He was generous with his talent by designing logos, contributing his art to fundraisers, and exhibiting his work at the Oscar Howe Art Center. In 1993, Governor George Mickelson recognized Cal as Most Outstanding Citizen with a Disability for South Dakota. Learn more about Calvin’s vast career on his legacy page here.
These Inductees have made South Dakota a brighter place and we are thankful for the way they have championed a culture of excellence for every single South Dakotan, without exception. To learn more and explore other Inductee’s legacy pages, visit our Inductee Directory.