Shaping Tomorrow: The Women of the Legends & Learning Program
At the South Dakota Hall of Fame, we are proud to honor the remarkable women who have not only shaped our state's past but are actively inspiring its future.
Through our Legends & Learning Program, the stories of South Dakota Hall of Fame Inductees come alive in classrooms, communities, and conversations across the state. This month, we turn our focus to the extraordinary women whose legacies are part of that program. Women whose courage, vision, and perseverance speak directly to the next generation of South Dakotans.
From the canvas to the classroom, and the TV screen to the legislature, these women have broken barriers, built institutions, and blazed trails that young people can follow. Their stories are not simply history; they are living lessons in leadership, resilience, and purpose.
We invite you to explore the women of the Legends & Learning Program, and to share their stories with the students, educators, and community members in your life. Because in South Dakota, the most powerful legacy is one that keeps teaching.
1992 Inductee JoAnne Bird
Born in 1945 in California, JoAnne Bird grew up on the Sisseton-Wahpeton Indian Reservation in South Dakota, where she developed a deep love for art and her Dakota Sioux heritage. She studied at three colleges, including the Santa Fe Institute of Indian Arts, before marrying recording artist Gordon Bird. Together, they work to preserve Native American culture through art and music. JoAnne's emotionally driven paintings and sculptures, including portraits of famous Native American leaders, are displayed across the United States and Europe, powerfully capturing the spirit and stories of her people. View JoAnne’s Legends & Learning page by selecting the button below.
1984 Inductee Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve
1984 Inductee Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve
Born in 1933 on the Rosebud Indian Reservation, Virginia Driving Hawk Sneve dedicated her life to sharing authentic Native American stories and correcting misconceptions. A graduate of South Dakota State University, she taught in public schools, on reservations, and in colleges. Her many books, including Jimmy Yellow Hawk and High Elk's Treasure, celebrate Native American life, traditions, and resilience for readers of all ages. Her contributions earned her the National Humanities Medal, presented by President Bill Clinton, recognizing her vital role in preserving and promoting Native American history and culture. View Virginia’s Legends & Learning page by selecting the button below.
1992 Inductee Mary Hart
Born in Madison, South Dakota, Mary Hart rose from small-town roots to become one of television's most recognized personalities. After graduating from Augustana College and being crowned Miss South Dakota in 1970, she transitioned from teaching English to broadcasting. She hosted Entertainment Tonight for 29 years, earning a Guinness World Record as the longest-serving entertainment news host. Mary also performed in Las Vegas and Atlantic City and produced popular exercise videos. A dedicated philanthropist, she supported causes like the Children's Miracle Network and, in 1989, received a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. View Mary’s Legends & Learning page by selecting the button below.
2007 Inductee Carole Hillard
Born in Deadwood, South Dakota, in 1936, Carole Hillard built a remarkable life devoted to public service. She served on Rapid City's City Council, in the South Dakota House of Representatives, and became the state's first and only female Lieutenant Governor, serving alongside Governor Bill Janklow for eight years. Deeply committed to those in need, she helped establish a women's shelter in Rapid City and the Cornerstone Rescue Mission. Her impact extended globally. She traveled to 63 countries as a consultant, helping build democracies. Carole's courage and compassion proved that one person truly can change the world. View Carole’s Legends & Learning page by selecting the button below.
2022 Inductee Shantel Krebs
Born April 28, 1973, and raised on a farm near Arlington, South Dakota, Shantel Krebs learned hard work early, helping her family's farming and cattle-trucking operation. She graduated from Dakota State University with a degree in business administration and was crowned Miss South Dakota in 1997. Shantel served a decade in South Dakota's Legislature before becoming Secretary of State, where she tackled systemic issues and expanded voter access. Alongside her government career, she found success in business and healthcare. A passionate advocate for South Dakotans, Shantel continues to be a dedicated leader in her community. View Shantel’s Legends & Learning page by selecting the button below.