Giving Back to South Dakota: Inductees Who Embody Philanthropy
Excellence in South Dakota is defined by giving back and uplifting others. As we continue to foster a culture of excellence, we’ve seen time and again how community engagement transforms lives. These South Dakota Hall of Fame inductees are living examples of this. They have built stronger communities, shaped brighter futures, and made a tangible difference through their philanthropic efforts.
We are privileged to honor individuals whose life’s work has left a lasting impact. From every corner of our state and far beyond, these inductees have helped shape a brighter tomorrow for many.
These are just a few of the hundreds of Inductees who have made a lasting impact across the state. We hope their stories of generosity inspire you to invest in excellence within your own community.
Public Service Leader & Conservationist
Dick Brown | 2019 Inductee
Richard "Dick" Brown is a fifth-generation South Dakotan and a passionate philanthropist known for his leadership and service. Alongside his wife Sue, they have raised over $15 million for state parks and wildlife projects, including the Outdoor Campuses, Good Earth State Park, and the Custer State Park Visitor Center. Brown’s fundraising expertise has been pivotal in expanding public assets, even coming out of retirement to raise $1.6 million for Palisades State Park. His impact extends through leadership roles in various civic, environmental, and cultural organizations, improving the lives of countless South Dakotans through his tireless dedication.
Giving Back to Special Needs
Joy Nelson | 2016 Inductee
Joy Nelson is passionate about many things, but she is best known for giving back to her community by helping people with special needs through Joy Ranch. Nelson realized the blessings bestowed on her were meant to be shared. As more people came to visit, she realized her ranch was a special place, and it needed to be made more broadly available. She saw how horses interacted with military veterans suffering from post-traumatic stress and how they responded to children with disabilities or autism. So she decided to donate the nearly 100-acre ranch to Lutherans Outdoors of South Dakota and was a force in raising the money to expand Joy Ranch.
Making Wishes Come True
Mary Olinger | 2012 Inductee
Mary Olinger’s life is one dedicated to giving back, serving others, and in truly making wishes come true. At no time was this more evident than during her 18 years as President & CEO of Make-A-Wish South Dakota. Yet, Mary’s giving goes far beyond the wishes granted to hundreds of children and their families. Mary utilized her business savvy and people skills to bring hundreds of new volunteers and donors into the organization. Financial donations to Make-A-Wish grew by 900% and when Mary retired in 2011, the South Dakota chapter was celebrating its second consecutive year as one of the "Top 5 Chapters in the United States." Before retiring, Mary wanted to build a similar office home for Make-A-Wish; a stand-alone place where Wish families and volunteers could gather, and a significant milestone for the organization could be celebrated. By sharing her vision, Mary inspired donors to give until construction was fully funded. In August 2008, the new state headquarters for Make-A-Wish was dedicated, and Mary’s dream to leave the organization in a better place was fulfilled.
transforming the State
T. Denny Sanford | 2007 Inductee
T. Denny Sanford, a South Dakota resident for over 20 years, is a prominent philanthropist whose contributions have transformed the state. His ownership of First PREMIER Bank and PREMIER Bankcard has created over 3,000 jobs, but his most significant impact comes from his philanthropy. Sanford pledged $70 million for the Homestake Mine Underground Laboratory and $400 million to Sanford Health, fostering world-class medical research. His generosity is expected to generate $1.15 billion in economic development and 9,000 jobs. Sanford's motto, “aspire to inspire before you expire,” encapsulates his lifelong commitment to giving back.
A lasting Impact
John Vucurevich (1912-2005) | 1999 Inductee
John T. Vucurevich, a Yugoslavian immigrant, built a successful banking career, which allowed him to dedicate much of his life to philanthropy. In 1990, he founded the John T. Vucurevich Foundation, committed to supporting the poor, distressed, and underprivileged. Known for his quiet generosity, he provided significant donations to organizations such as United Way, Black Hills Workshop, YMCA, Boys Club, and Youth and Family Services in Rapid City. He also endowed numerous community projects, including the Rapid City Community Care Center, and contributed anonymously to local charities. His philanthropic efforts earned him the South Dakota Philanthropist of the Year Award in 1992.
Do you know an individual who has helped shape South Dakota in a positive way?
You can begin the process of nominating them for induction into the SD Hall of Fame. Join us in uplifting South Dakota Excellence.