In the heart of South Dakota, where the values of community, education, and perseverance shine brightly, Judy Olson Duhamel has left an indelible mark. Her induction into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2014 was not just a recognition of a career well-spent but a celebration of a lifetime devoted to service, education, and advocacy.

Judy joined South Dakota Hall of Fame CEO, Laurie Becvar, to talk about her life and legacy as a leader in education in South Dakota.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Judy’s early life and career
• Guiding lessons passed on from her parents
• Judy’s dedication to educational opportunities for all

“It was important for me to talk to and listen to all people, no matter our differences.” - Judy Olsen Duhamel

To learn more about Judy Olson Duhamel, visit her legacy page on our website here: sdexcellence.org/Judy_Olson_Duhamel_2014

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Life doesn’t always take a straight path. For Greg Sands, the road was winding, filled with obstacles that tested his resilience. But through perseverance, faith, and an unwavering belief in second chances, Greg turned his story from struggle to success—both in business and in giving back to the community.

Greg was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2024 for his legacy of giving and his ability to inspire others to live their best lives. He joined South Dakota Hall of Fame Board Director Marci Burdick to discuss the path that brought him to where he is today.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• How Greg’s mindset set him on a path to success
• Why doing what is right is a way of life for Greg
• Greg’s philanthropic endeavors

“It’s important to only focus on the hurdle that’s in front of you. You can’t focus on the fifty hurdles past that. Just take them one at a time.” - Greg Sands

To learn more about Greg Sands, visit his legacy page here: https://sdexcellence.org/Greg_Sands_2024

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Website: www.sdhalloffame.org

Coming from humble roots on her family’s homestead, Judith Knittel Meierhenry has led a life of excellence, paving the way for generations as a trailblazer for women in Law. Judith has had many firsts, overcoming adversity to rise to the highest position a judge can reach within South Dakota’s Supreme Court. She was inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame in 2024 for her exemplary leadership and service to the state.

Judith joined South Dakota Hall of Fame Board Director, Cathy Clark to discuss her life and career as an educator, lawyer, and judge.

In this episode, you will hear about:

• Judith’s early career as a teacher and her transition into Law
• Judith’s advice for others looking to follow a similar path
• Her feelings on giving back and being inducted into the South Dakota Hall of Fame

“When you are the first at anything, you want to try your best to make it easier for those who follow.” said Judith, “and that is a legacy I hope I have left behind.” - Judith Knittel Meierhenry

To learn more about Judith Knittel Meierhenry, visit her legacy page on our website her: https://sdexcellence.org/Judith_Knittel_Meierhenry_2024

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Instagram: @sdhalloffame

Website: www.sdhalloffame.org