South Dakota Hall of Fame Distinctively Honors and Inspires High Achievement

Since 1974, the South Dakota Hall of Fame has celebrated South Dakota's legends and trailblazers who embody our state's innovative spirit and high achievement. “Inductees have changed our state, nation, and the world in meaningful ways. Their impact has been significant,” said Laurie Becvar, SD Hall of Fame CEO.

The organization's Board of Directors, who reside throughout South Dakota, will choose candidates for the Class of 2026 from a robust pool of nominees. It is a process involving a deep review of nomination packets, ratings on criteria, and dialogue that spans weeks. This culminates in the selection of up to eleven chosen candidates in twelve varied categories.

Becvar shared that anyone can nominate a person or persons using the Hall's new nomination site. To be eligible, the nominee must be from South Dakota or have lived in South Dakota at some point in their lives. Additionally, the nominee must have transcended boundaries in their field and made a lasting contribution to South Dakota and beyond.

Nominators are encouraged to attend the upcoming webinar, Nominating Excellence, scheduled for Wednesday, January 7, 2026, from 4:00 to 5:00 p.m. MT | 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. CT. Call 605-234-4216 to register or register online at here.

The SD Hall of Fame is seeking new nominations now through midnight, February 1, 2026, CT. The Class of 2026 will be chosen and notified in April, and they will be recognized at the South Dakota Hall of Fame’s Honor Ceremony held on Friday, September 11th, and Saturday, September 12th in Chamberlain and Oacoma, South Dakota. The South Dakota Hall of Fame is the state's official Hall of Fame, as deemed by the SD Legislature in 1996.