Looking to the Future of the South Dakota Hall of Fame
Attendees enjoying the 2023 Honors Ceremony
The South Dakota Hall of Fame had an amazing 2023, championing a culture of excellence and honoring individuals whose legacies shape our great state. In addition to welcoming 10 new inductees, we also awarded 15 new Acts of Excellence awards, as well as celebrated countless inductee anniversaries. Our work to digitize our vast collection of South Dakota history continues steadily, ensuring inspiration for years to come.
Our organization has a very special year ahead; 2024 marks the South Dakota Hall of Fame’s 50th anniversary. Over the last 50 years, we have seen the induction of 782 champions of excellence, the establishment of the Visitor & Education Center in Chamberlain, and the creation of diverse programs, including Legacies of Achievement (LOA), Legends & Learning (L&L), and Acts of Excellence (AOE).
As we look to the future, our focus is set on inspiring the youth of South Dakota in some big ways. The South Dakota Hall of Fame is collaborating with the communities of Chamberlain and Oacoma, South Dakota to further develop the area as a new “Destination Site” for our State. We are also in the process of expanding the Legends & Learning Program to showcase leadership lessons through the state’s “greats”. These endeavors align with our mission to champion a culture of excellence and leave a lasting impact throughout South Dakota.
Transforming the South Dakota Hall of Fame Experience
We are joining the communities of Chamberlain and Oacoma, to continue to develop the area as a destination site, we will revitalize and improve the South Dakota Hall of Fame’s Visitor & Education Center to be a Signature Attraction—creating engaging historical experiences for travelers through central South Dakota. This includes crafting holographic experiences that carry aspirations and leadership insights, while also intertwining narratives about culture, leadership, and triumph over adversity from South Dakota Hall of Fame Inductees.
Imagine stepping into the future as we introduce a groundbreaking element to our exhibits–holograms. The designed holograms will be a FIRST in South Dakota, allowing selected individuals to share firsthand accounts of how their achievements shaped our great state. These holograms will recount achievements and explore our Nation’s founding principles, celebrating the freedoms that bind us together.
Our commitment to excellence drives us to cutting-edge technology to make history come alive. Witness the fusion of history and technology, and let the past speak to you in ways like never before.
We believe everyone needs a hero
We advocate for the idea that everyone can find inspiration in a hero. Inductees of the South Dakota Hall of Fame can be those heroes, shaping future leaders of our state. Our ongoing efforts to expand the Legends & Learning program include,
The development of robust content, unlike that available elsewhere.
Offering free access to the program for free to teachers, students, and anyone with an interest.
Our South Dakota Champions will inspire the youth and teach them how to thrive in South Dakota, fostering a commitment to stay and contribute to our state’s success.
The content will celebrate our state and Nation.
Stay connected as we pursue these exciting developments by following us on social media, and by signing up for our newsletter. We look forward to sharing more updates, and we invite you to join us in championing a culture of excellence in South Dakota in 2024.