Memorable Moments From Honors Ceremonies of the Past
The Honors Ceremony weekend is our biggest annual event, and the memories made over these special weekends are priceless. There are so many wonderful moments that occur–from fantastic speeches to beautiful cultural moments. They serve as a reminder of the excellence across South Dakota that we champion each and every day.
There are a handful of fantastic events held over these celebratory weekends, but one of our most cherished is the Honors Ceremony Banquet. It is on this special night that we get to hear from Inductees and representatives of Inductees, as they share what it means to be honored for their impacts across South Dakota. Scroll down and take a look at memorable moments from Honors Ceremonies of the past, and we hope you join us as we eagerly anticipate the 2023 Honors Ceremony weekend, held later this year.
2022 Inductee Bev Warne receiving a star quilt from a loved one
2022 Inductee Bev Warne Receives Star Quilt
2022 Inductee Bev Warne was inducted for her dedication to nursing and education in South Dakota, with a career spanning more than 20 years. After her acceptance speech, she received a stunning star quilt from loved ones. For the Lakota people star quilts, wičháȟpi owíŋža, represents honor and generosity, and are one of the most valued gifts one can receive. It was a beautiful moment to witness at the 2022 Honors Ceremony banquet. Bev’s acceptance speech was an equally beautiful moment of reflection on her life’s work and you can view it by clicking here.
Craig Tieszen, representing District 34 in the SD State Senate
2021 Inductee Craig Tieszen is Remembered by his wife
During the Honors Ceremony for the Class of 2021 Inductees, Craig Tieszen (1949–2017) was honored for his life’s work as a selfless leader in Rapid City and beyond. Here at the South Dakota Hall of Fame, we are deeply honored to carry on the legacy of Inductees who have passed. Deb Tieszen’s heartfelt speech dedicated to the life of her husband Craig was a reminder of the power of sharing one’s story for generations to come. You can view Deb Tieszen’s touching speech by clicking here.
Pat Lebrun speaking at Dakota State University
2013 Inductee Pat Lebrun is A South Dakotan by Choice
Pat Lebrun was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame for her huge impact on the state from music to higher education, all the way to jumpstarting research funding throughout the state. She began her speech by stating that she is a South Dakotan by choice, and serves as an example of Inductees coming from all walks of life. Some Inductees are born and raised in South Dakota, coming from generations of South Dakotan families, and other Inductees come to South Dakota as adults by choice. Pat is one example of the diversity in excellence in South Dakota. You can view her fantastic speech by clicking here.
Mayor Don Barnett the day after the 1972 Flood
2011 Inductee Donald Barnett Remembers the 1972 Flood
2011 Inductee Don Barnett was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame for his fearless leadership and dedication as mayor of Rapid City during one of the nation's most deadly floods to ever occur. He serves as a reminder of how excellence shines during even the darkest of times. During the 2011 Honors Ceremony Banquet, Don gave a stirring speech recounting his experience that fateful night. You can view his speech by clicking here.
These are just a handful of the many Inductees who have shared memorable moments with us at the South Dakota Hall of Fame. To learn more and explore other Inductee’s legacy pages, visit our Inductee Directory.