Inspiring the Next Generation: Legends & Learning Expands Across South Dakota
Pictured right to left: SDHoF Board Director Shantel Krebs, SD Deputy Secretary Laura Scheibe, SD Secretary of Education Joseph Graves, SDHoF CEO Laurie Becvar, and SDHoF Board Director Karl Adam.
The South Dakota Hall of Fame is dedicated to sharing the stories of excellence that have shaped our state. Through the revitalized Legends & Learning program, led by Dr. Michelle Hovland, EdD, students and teachers alike are discovering new ways to connect with South Dakota’s rich history of leadership, innovation, and impact.
With 21 Legends (soon to be 22!) represented, the program brings inspiring role models into classrooms while meeting state learning standards for grades K–5 in social studies, reading, writing, and educational technology. By weaving real stories of South Dakotans who made a difference into lesson plans, Legends & Learning helps students see the possibilities of leadership in their own lives.
Leadership in Education
Dr. Michelle Hovland, EdD
Dr. Hovland, the Hall of Fame’s Legends & Learning Manager, brings deep expertise in curriculum design and online learning. Having taught at every level from elementary through higher education, she has transformed Legends & Learning into a practical, engaging, and forward-thinking resource for educators statewide.
Her leadership is opening doors for more teachers and schools, as the program explores new collaborations with the South Dakota Department of Education. The goal: to share the stories of our Legends with even more students, inspiring the next generation of leaders across the state.
What Educators Are Saying
Teachers who have brought Legends & Learning into their classrooms are enthusiastic about the results:
“The content is simple, focused, and easy to use.”
“Lessons are ready to go and engaging for students.”
“Loved learning about the fascinating people in the SD Hall of Fame.”
“It’s good to learn about South Dakotans who made a difference.”
“I’ll use the curriculum as a learning center throughout the year.”
These voices reflect the power of sharing stories that are not only educational but also deeply meaningful to South Dakota communities.
New Additions for Teachers
Legends & Learning continues to grow, offering new opportunities for educators:
Graduate-level courses that enrich professional learning.
A “Train the Teacher” professional development experience, where educators receive content and supplies to lead their own 1-hour training session.
Graduate courses are moving online soon, making access more flexible than ever.
Looking Ahead
As the program expands, the South Dakota Hall of Fame remains committed to its mission: celebrating excellence and inspiring generations. By connecting young learners with South Dakota’s Legends, educators are not only teaching history, they are cultivating leadership, resilience, and vision for the future.