South Dakota State University’s colleges of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and Education and Human Sciences honored Patty DeZeeuw, Elkton; Mary Duvall, Pierre; Jerry Schmitz, Vermillion; and Kevin Scott, Valley Springs; with the 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community Award.
For nearly a century, this time-honored award has recognized South Dakotans for their contributions through leadership and service on the local, state and national levels. Established in 1927, the annual award formerly known as the Eminent Farmer/Rancher and Homemaker Award is a South Dakota tradition with a legacy of more than 370 recipients.
The 2026 award recipients will be recognized during a banquet at McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center on the SDSU campus Sept. 18. For tickets, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1997470559213. Tickets must be purchased by Sept. 4.
