How the Class of 2025 Inductees Are Shaping the Legacy of South Dakota
Inductees of the South Dakota Hall of Fame come from all walks of life and have left a lasting impact on our state. Through innovation, leadership, creativity, and service, they have helped shape South Dakota’s identity and touched the lives of countless individuals across the region.
We remain committed to our mission, "To Champion a Culture of Excellence". Our purpose is to Honor, Inspire, Preserve, and Educate others about the rich histories of Excellence in South Dakota and beyond.
The Class of 2025 continues this legacy of excellence. We are proud to officially induct this remarkable group into the South Dakota Hall of Fame this September, recognizing the many ways they have contributed to the growth and spirit of our state. Learn more below about how these outstanding individuals have made a difference in South Dakota and beyond.
Shaping The State Through Tourism
Did you know, Johnny Brockelsby is one of South Dakota tourism’s most passionate and effective advocates? A lifelong champion of South Dakota tourism, Johnny Brockelsby, known affectionately as “Johnny B,” has been one of the state’s most influential and enduring advocates.
As Public Relations Director of Reptile Gardens and a tireless promoter of the Black Hills, Johnny has spent decades elevating South Dakota as a premier travel destination. He’s held leadership roles with the Governor’s Tourism Advisory Board, the Mount Rushmore Society, Black Hills Badlands & Lakes, and more.
He helped found the SD Visitor and Industry Alliance and the Badlands National Park Conservancy. His work helped grow tourism into an $8.1 billion industry supporting nearly 9% of jobs in the state.
Transforming South Dakota
Did you know, Greg Carmon transformed Midwest Railcar Repair from a small shop into a national industry leader with 750-car capacity, climate-controlled workstations, and over 150 employees in Corson, SD?
A visionary entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, Greg Carmon has made a lasting mark on South Dakota through both business innovation and community investment. Greg used his success to fuel wide-reaching philanthropic efforts across the state.
He also launched two railcar leasing companies and serves on numerous civic and state boards—proving business success and community leadership can go hand in hand.
Impacting the Health of South DAkota
Did you know, after a mission trip to Haiti, Dr. Mark Harlow, M.D. shifted his focus to rural South Dakota and began providing surgical care at Pine Ridge Hospital?
A respected physician and servant-leader, Dr. Harlow has dedicated his career to advancing healthcare and uplifting underserved communities in South Dakota.
He now serves as Chief Medical Officer of the Oyate Health Center and has contributed to the Special Olympics, South Dakota Medical Association, and two medical schools—making a powerful impact in both medicine and community.
Building Confidence Across South Dakota
Did you know that before becoming a two-term Mayor of Sioux Falls, Michael (Mike) Huether led a successful banking career at Citibank and PREMIER Bankcard?
As mayor, he spearheaded construction of the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center and reformed the city's pension system, saving taxpayers hundreds of millions. His leadership continues to shape South Dakota’s largest city.
Mike continues to inspire others to lead boldly, serve passionately, and leave every community better than they found it.
Outstanding Innovation
Did you know, Dr. John A. Ismay, D.V.M. holds the patent for a surgical procedure and custom tools used nationwide to remove stones from a horse’s bladder?
A trailblazer in veterinary medicine and agricultural innovation, Dr. John Ismay has served South Dakota and the region for over five decades.
His techniques are featured in textbooks used at veterinary schools across the U.S.—making him a leader in both innovation and education in veterinary medicine.
A Champion of State Justice
Did you know, Chief Justice Robert A. Miller modernized South Dakota’s courts, making them more professional, open, and equitable?
He was appointed to elite national judicial boards—one requiring Presidential appointment and Senate confirmation. He championed women and tribal representation in the judiciary and served nearly 30 years on the bench.
A transformative figure in South Dakota’s legal history, Chief Justice Robert A. Miller is a lifelong servant leader. His impact on South Dakota will resonate for generations.
Improving Life in South Dakota
Did you know, Walter Schaefer (1935 - 2023) helped organize the Bicentennial Wagon Train that journeyed across South Dakota to Valley Forge for America’s 200th birthday in 1976?
He also spent 28 years as Executive Director of McCrossan Boys Ranch, serving as a mentor and father figure to more than 1,200 boys. Through compassion, discipline, and draft horse therapy, he helped transform lives.
Walter also served in the U.S. Army Mental Health Services and held leadership roles at the Human Services Center, Prairie Village, and more.
Contributions From the Heart
Did you know, David Wayne Snyder played a critical role in creating the Mickelson Trail and helped bring the Sanford Underground Research Facility to life in Lead, SD?
He also created Pathways Spiritual Sanctuary on his Black Hills ranch—a peaceful space reflecting his lifelong commitment to love, service, and scientific exploration.
He is also a published author, and his book, The Turkey Shack – A Journey to Love, shares the heart behind his sanctuary and lifelong mission of service.
Shaping South Dakota Through Public Service
Did you know, Jim Soyer (1947 - 2021)’s 44 years in public service brought quiet but powerful change to South Dakota?
He helped attract Citibank to the state, lowered property taxes, increased scholarships, and helped launch the Deep Underground Science Lab and the state’s Amber Alert and Internet Crimes Against Children system.
Humble and loyal, Jim believed in the power of good governance and never sought the spotlight—only a better South Dakota.
Comprehensive Care for South Dakota
Did you know, Dr. Sophie Two Hawk, M.D. was the first Native American to earn an M.D. from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine?
She served in Indian Health Service Hospitals as a physician, clinical director, and CEO—providing critical care in hospitals and ERs across South Dakota.
A Clinical Professor and respected mentor, she helped shape future generations of Native healthcare leaders, including her own daughters. A true trailblazer in medicine and Indigenous leadership.
A Historical Figure Who Shaped the State
Did you know, Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy, M.D. (1849 - 1939) was a true Renaissance man whose influence helped shape South Dakota in its earliest days?
Arriving in the Black Hills in 1875, he became the state’s first Surgeon General and was also an explorer, topographer, and civic leader. His early maps opened the Black Hills to generations of hikers and climbers.
He even designed the region’s first hydroelectric plant and built a home that still honors the beauty of the Black Hills today.
Join Us at the 2025 Honors Ceremony
We invite you to join us in celebrating the Class of 2025’s official induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame this September 12 and 13.
Learn more about the Class of 2025, see the full list of events, and purchase your tickets by selecting the button below.