Shaping South Dakota: Our Newest Inductees' Statewide Impact
Across South Dakota, there are people whose names become part of the landscape itself: the teacher whose lessons outlast the classroom, the entrepreneur whose vision reshapes a Main Street, the Doctor who fosters hope in a better tomorrow. These are the individuals the South Dakota Hall of Fame exists to celebrate.
For 52 years, our organization has carried out a simple but enduring purpose: to Honor, Inspire, Preserve, and Educate others about the rich histories of excellence found across South Dakota and beyond. Each year, this takes on new life through the stories of the people we induct.
This September, we are honored to welcome the Class of 2026 into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. Their paths have differed, but their impact tells a familiar story: one of dedication, service, and lasting contribution to the people and places of South Dakota. Read on to learn more about the individuals who make up this year's class and the ways they have helped shape our state and beyond.
Keeping South Dakota Healthy
Susan Marie Anderson, MD (1970–2024), H. Eugene Hoyme, MD and Daniel G. Petereit, MD have shaped the state through the field of medicine.
Dr. Susan Marie Anderson rose to become Executive Dean of USD Sanford School of Medicine. A champion of rural and underserved communities, she maintained an outreach clinic in her hometown throughout her career. Dr. H. Eugene Hoyme is a pediatrician and medical geneticist who developed the internationally recognized Hoyme Diagnostic Criteria for fetal alcohol spectrum disorders. Dr. Daniel G. Petereit founded the NCI-funded Walking Forward program in 2002 to address cancer disparities among Native Americans.
Their dedication to the health of their patients has impacted South Dakota and beyond.
Uplifting Community in South Dakota
Brian James Bonde, ACFRE, and John (Jack) Neil Kucera have made a major difference in South Dakota through philanthropy.
One of only 117 worldwide holding the Advanced Certified Fundraising Executive credential, Brian James Bonde has raised over $450 million for nonprofits. A noted speaker and consultant, he also earned both the Sioux Falls Arts Council and the Governor's Lifetime Arts Achievement Awards through 40 years of board service. During Jack Kucera’s 6-year tenure as Board Chair, The Air Force Academy Foundation raised $330 million. A pilot, he’s done 400+ charity flights. Jack and Vianne co-chair the capital campaign to renovate the Homestake Opera House.
Thanks to their efforts, the generosity of South Dakota has shaped the lives of people across the state.
The Art of Education
James L. Johnson, PhD, has changed the lives of thousands through his dedicated career in education.
Dr. James L. Johnson, a theatre educator, spent 30 years at SDSU as Director of Theatre and Prairie Repertory Theatre, where he directed 105 plays. During his career, Dr. Johnson’s dedication shaped careers nationwide, having contact with over 13,000 students at multiple universities.
He has had an invaluable impact through the arts in South Dakota and beyond.
Shaping Legislation Throughout South Dakota
Peter Larson and David Ellwood Lust (1968–2021) have made an impact on South Dakota and the nation through their work to create legislation that has made a difference.
Peter Larson has authored over 80 scientific articles, shaped federal fossil collection policy, and built a collaborative community spanning business, academia, and government. Peter heads Black Hills Institute, the world’s largest private fossil company. David Ellwood Lust (1968–2021) was a Rapid City attorney, South Dakota legislator, and tireless civic leader who devoted his life to making South Dakota thrive. He served 11 years in the State Legislature, including two terms as House Majority Leader.
They have offered unique insight and dedicated their lives to the betterment of South Dakota and beyond.
Leadership and Vision
Michelle Gross Lavallee and Matt Paulson have made a difference throughout the state with their leadership and vision for a better tomorrow in South Dakota.
Michelle Gross Lavallee held senior leadership roles at NorthWestern Energy, the University of South Dakota, Avera McKennan, and Raven Industries. As CEO of Children’s Home Society, she reversed an 80% staff turnover rate and championed a $50 million Rapid City campus. Matt Paulson is the founder and CEO of MarketBeat, the largest digital media company in the Dakotas with more than six million subscribers. His venture capital firm, Homegrown Capital, has invested in more than 80 tech companies.
Their leadership has fostered innovation and growth throughout the state.
Join Us at the 2026 Honors Ceremony
We invite you to join us in celebrating the Class of 2026’s official induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame this September 11 and 12.
Learn more about the Class of 2026, see the full list of events, and purchase your tickets by selecting the button below.