Continuing to Celebrate Our 2020 Dream Chasers as the Year Comes to a Close

As 2020 draws to a close, we want to take a moment to applaud South Dakotans across the state. During a year where we weren’t just facing the normal challenges that come along, but dealing with extraordinary challenges, we watched South Dakotans across this great state still rise up, adapt, and chase their dreams.

The South Dakota Hall of Fame’s mission is to Champion a Culture of Excellence in South Dakota. We take that mission seriously, and in this unprecedented year, we also adapted and changed our yearly event to honor the Class of 2020. For the first time ever we hosted a Virtual Medallion Ceremony to highlight these ten extraordinary individuals. For the first time ever we hosted a Virtual Medallion Ceremony to highlight these ten extraordinary individuals. We had the opportunity to create a brand new way to honor them for their achievements that inspire our youth, lead the generations, and build our future here in South Dakota. You can view the Medallion Ceremony below.

The Class of 2020

Mike Cartney (Education) A Champion of the Technical Education System of South Dakota. Glenna Fouberg (Education) An Innovative Educator Dedicated to Helping Students on the Margins. Delta David Gier (Arts & Entertainment) An Individual Seeking to Grow, Connect, and Impact Through Music. Bernie Hunhoff (Arts & Entertainment) Showcasing the Vibrancy of South Dakota One Story at a Time. Kitty Kinsman (Political) Leadership for the Health Landscape of South Dakota. Bruce Long Fox (Education) Saving At-Risk Native Youth Through the Power of Education. Jack Marsh (Business) A Champion of Ethics and Human Rights in South Dakota. Walter Panzirer (Philanthropy) Impacting the Lives of Nearly Every South Dakotan Through Philanthropy. Sen. Larry Pressler (Political) Looking Beyond What is and Pursuing What Could Be. Mamie Pyle (Political) A Champion for the Women of South Dakota During the Women’s Suffrage Movement.

We are excited to hold an in-person Honor’s Ceremony, April 16th & 17th of 2021 for the Class of 2020.

Nominate a Champion for the class of 2021

It is also that exciting time of year again where nominations for the class of 2021 are now open. Do you know a Champion? Champions can come from anywhere, and from any walk of life. We want to hear about anyone who has pursued excellence and contributed to the life we enjoy in South Dakota.

Anyone may nominate an individual, living or deceased, to be considered for induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. Self-nomination is not permitted. To learn more, or to submit a nomination, visit the Nominations page of our website.