South Dakota Hall of Fame Announces Inductee Class for 2025
In 2025, ten remarkable individuals whose life’s work has elevated excellence in South Dakota and beyond will be formally inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame. These individuals represent a broad range of fields, including business, philanthropy, agriculture, general, political, and professional sectors. This accomplished group embodies the spirit of leadership, innovation, and dedication. Their extraordinary achievements have left a lasting impact on their communities and beyond.
The South Dakota Hall of Fame is proud to announce the Inductee Class for 2025: Johnny Brockelsby (Business), Greg Carmon (Philanthropy), Mark Harlow (Philanthropy), Michael Huether (General), Dr. John A. Ismay (Agriculture), Robert A. Miller (Professional), Walter Schaefer (1935 - 2023) (General), David Wayne Snyder (General), Jim Soyer (1947 - 2021) (Political), and Sophie Two Hawk, M.D. (Professional).
In addition to the Class of 2025 inductees, the South Dakota Hall of Fame is proud to announce a new category–the Historical Figure category–featuring a special 11th inductee. This year’s Historical Figure is Valentine McGillycuddy (1849 - 1939), South Dakota’s first surgeon general.
The Historical Figure category is designed to recognize a deceased individual who has made a significant contribution to or impact on South Dakota’s culture, history, or historical image. To qualify as a Historical Figure, the individual must be deceased for at least 50 years at the time of nomination.
The Class of 2025 will be celebrated at this year’s Honors Ceremony on September 12th and 13th, 2025, in Chamberlain/Oacoma. The public is invited to attend.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Laurie Becvar, Ed.D., M.A.
CEO, South Dakota Hall of Fame
lbecvar@sdhalloffame.org
605-234-4216
ABOUT THE SOUTH DAKOTA HALL OF FAME
The South Dakota Hall of Fame's mission is "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.
Meet the Class of 2025
Johnny Brockelsby
Rapid City, S.D. | Category: Business
“A Legend of the Tourism Industry”
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 served in leadership roles across nearly every major tourism board in the state, including the Governor’s Tourism and the South Dakota Visitor Industry Alliance, which he co-founded. His efforts helped secure national media exposure, launch critical marketing initiatives, and even build the Rapid City Visitor Information Center. A recipient of the Ben Black Elk Award, Johnny’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of South Dakota’s visitor industry and community life.
Greg Carmon
Brandon, S.D. | Category: Philanthropy
“Steadfast Dedication to Community”
A visionary entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, Greg Carmon has made a lasting mark on South Dakota through both business innovation and community investment. After transforming a small railcar repair shop into the thriving Midwest Railcar Repair in Brandon, Greg used his success to fuel wide-reaching philanthropic efforts across the state. Deeply committed to his hometown of DeSmet, he led projects like the visionary Sculpture Trail to boost local tourism. A founding member of the Build Dakota Scholarship board and a strong advocate for education, conservation, and youth programs, Greg has supported initiatives ranging from the Arc of Dreams and Special Olympics to the fight against human trafficking. His enduring legacy is defined by his humble leadership, generous spirit, and a passion for making South Dakota a better place to live, work, and grow.
Mark Harlow
Rapid City, S.D. | Category: Philanthropy
“Leading by Example”
A respected physician and servant-leader, Dr. Mark Harlow has dedicated his career to advancing healthcare and uplifting underserved communities in South Dakota. After joining Black Hills Orthopedic and Spine Center in 1992, his path shifted following a life-threatening illness, leading him to focus on broader health equity efforts. He provided surgical care at Pine Ridge for five years and now serves as Chief Medical Officer at Oyate Health Center, which is nationally recognized for its pandemic response. A longtime board member and former president of the Cornerstone Rescue Mission, Dr. Harlow also co-founded the Rapid City Flame Special Olympics program. Through his philanthropy and a healthcare scholarship for Native American students, he continues to invest in the next generation. Dr. Harlow’s life reflects unwavering compassion and a deep commitment to South Dakota’s well-being.
Michael Huether
Sioux Falls, S.D. | Category: General
“Building Confidence Across South Dakota”
A visionary leader and dynamic changemaker, Mike Huether served two terms as mayor of Sioux Falls, transforming the city into a national model of growth and innovation. With a background in executive leadership at PREMIER Bankcard, where he helped build the 10th largest credit card company in the U.S., Mike brought a results-driven mindset to public service. Under his leadership, Sioux Falls launched transformative projects including the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Midco Aquatics Center, and Levitt Shell, while preserving the city’s strong financial standing. Beyond politics, Mike champions leadership and public service through the Mike Huether Public Service Academy at SDSU and the Huether Foundation, which supports causes across South Dakota. An author, TV host, and lifelong volunteer, Mike continues to inspire others to lead boldly, serve passionately, and leave every community better than they found it.
Dr. John A. Ismay
Bison, S.D. | Category: Agriculture
“Outstanding Innovation and Care”
A trailblazer in veterinary medicine and agricultural innovation, Dr. John Ismay has served South Dakota and the region for over five decades. After earning his Doctor of Veterinary Medicine from Colorado State University, he established the Sturgis Veterinary Hospital in 1972, transforming it into a state-of-the-art referral center for a five-state area. His pioneering work in equine surgery, including a patented procedure for removing bladder stones, continues to influence veterinary education and practice nationwide. Beyond medicine, Dr. Ismay and his family built one of the region’s largest cattle operations and later expanded into bison ranching. In 2017, he co-founded MAVANA, a groundbreaking national veterinary network, which grew to 36 practices. A committed educator, innovator, and community leader, Dr. Ismay’s legacy spans animal health, youth mentorship, and visionary entrepreneurship.
Robert A. Miller
Sioux Falls, S.D. | Category: Professional
“A Champion of Justice”
A transformative figure in South Dakota’s legal history, Chief Justice Robert A. Miller modernized and unified the state’s judiciary, setting national standards for excellence. Appointed to the South Dakota Supreme Court in 1986 and named Chief Justice in 1990, he led the court for 11 years, continuing to serve in national judicial leadership roles for over a decade after retirement. Miller chaired the U.S. State Justice Institute for 12 years, advocating for reform and innovation in courts nationwide. He pioneered partnerships between state and Tribal courts, championed civic education, and opened court proceedings to public view, making the judicial system more accessible and accountable. Known for his clarity in legal opinions and unwavering ethical standards, Miller’s career spanned nearly 50 years of public service. A lifelong servant leader, his impact on South Dakota will resonate for generations.
Walter Schaefer (1935 - 2023)
Winfred, S.D. | Category: General
“Improving Life in South Dakota”
Born on a farm near Winfred, SD, Walt Schaefer (1935 - 2023) devoted his life to service, most notably during his 28-year tenure as Executive Director of McCrossan Boys Ranch. There, he served as a father figure to over 1,200 boys, believing every young man deserved another chance. Through compassion, discipline, and draft horse therapy, he helped transform lives. Walt also served in the U.S. Army Mental Health Services and held leadership roles at the Human Services Center, Prairie Village, and more. A lifelong horseman, he bred and exhibited Belgian horses for over 50 years, integrating them into youth development programs. Walt and his horses, along with McCrossan Boys Ranch, represented South Dakota in the Bicentennial Wagon Train traveling throughout the state before arriving in Valley Forge, PA, on July 4, 1976. In 1989, Governor George S. Mickelson appointed Walt as the Wagon Master of the Eastern Division of the SD Centennial Wagon Train.
David Wayne Snyder
Rapid City, S.D. | Category: General
“Transformational Contributions to South Dakota”
Dave Snyder is an innovative entrepreneur, philanthropist, and visionary leader. After earning degrees in Agricultural Economics and serving as a U.S. Army officer, he co-founded D&D Farms, developing one of the nation’s largest irrigated farms and hog operations. In the 1990s, Dave helped create the acclaimed Mickelson Trail, personally donating and pioneering a successful “sell the bridges” campaign. As Executive Director of the SD Science and Technology Authority, he played a key role in transforming the Homestake Mine into the world-renowned Sanford Underground Research Facility. In 2010, he founded Pathways Spiritual Sanctuary, 80 acres of reflection and healing space in the Black Hills. His book, The Turkey Shack – A Journey to Love, shares the heart behind his sanctuary and lifelong mission of service.
Jim Soyer (1947 - 2021)
Pierre, S.D. | Category: Political
“Excellence in Public Service”
Jim Soyer (1947 - 2021) devoted 44 years to public service, quietly shaping the future of South Dakota. He worked alongside leaders, including U.S. Senator Larry Pressler, Governor Tommy Thompson, and four South Dakota governors, serving as Chief of Staff, Press Secretary, and Legislative Director. Jim played key roles in bringing Citibank to the state, launching the Internet Crimes Against Children program, securing the Homestake Lab, and lowering property taxes. A gifted communicator and trusted advisor, he influenced major policy decisions while mentoring generations of leaders. In 1989, he helped lead South Dakota’s Centennial Celebration, raising over $2 million for grassroots events across 200 communities. Humble and loyal, Jim believed in the power of good governance and never sought the spotlight—only a better South Dakota. He passed away in 2021, leaving an enduring legacy.
Sophie Two Hawk, M.D.
Sioux Falls, S.D. | Category: Professional
“A Leader in Comprehensive Care”
Dr. Sophie Two Hawk is a trailblazing physician who served for 20 years in the U.S. Public Health Service. A member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Dr. Two Hawk was the first Native American to earn an M.D. from the University of South Dakota School of Medicine. Her career spanned all aspects of medicine, eventually rising to CEO of Indian Health Service facilities in South Dakota. A Clinical Professor and respected mentor, she helped shape future generations of Native healthcare leaders, including her own daughters. Her work led to South Dakota’s first WHO Baby Friendly designation and improved culturally competent care across the state. She has received numerous national honors, including the Indian Health Services Director’s Award and Public Health Service Superior Service Award. Through leadership, advocacy, and education, Dr. Two Hawk has left a transformative mark on healthcare in South Dakota and beyond.
2025 Historical Figure
Valentine McGillycuddy (1849 - 1939)
Rapid City, S.D. | Category: Historical Figure
A visionary pioneer, Dr. Valentine McGillycuddy helped shape the foundation of South Dakota through service as a physician, explorer, Indian Agent, and civic leader. He arrived in the Black Hills in 1875 and became South Dakota’s first Surgeon General. As a topographer and adventurer, his early mapping work opened the region for generations of hikers and climbers. McGillycuddy served as mayor of Rapid City, led key banking institutions, and helped launch the South Dakota School of Mines and Technology. As Indian Agent at Pine Ridge, he advocated for humane treatment of Native peoples and was the attending physician at Crazy Horse’s death. He designed the region’s first hydroelectric plant and built his namesake house to honor the Black Hills’ beauty. His legacy continues to shine in the Black Hills and beyond.