By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University announces four recipients of the 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community Award. Patty DeZeeuw of Elkton, Mary Duvall of Pierre, Jerry Schmitz of Vermillion and Kevin Scott of Valley Springs receive the honor for their leadership and service.
The award is presented by SDSU’s College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and College of Education and Human Sciences. It recognized South Dakotans who make meaningful contributions to their local communities and beyond through leadership, service and support.
“It's important for us to recognize these members of the agriculture community who have gone above and beyond in sharing their time, talent and treasure for the good of others,” said Joseph Cassady, South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. “Their actions serve as an inspiration to all. And today, we are in need of strong leaders in agriculture more than ever before. As the number of individuals directly engaged in production agriculture continues to decline, it is critical that our voices be heard.”
The award has a long history at SDSU. Established in 1927, it was formerly known as the Eminent Farmer/Rancher and Homemaker Award. More than 370 people have received recognition over the years.
SDSU selects recipients through a confidential nomination process. A committee made up of faculty members, administrators, SDSU Extension personnel and previous award recipients reviewed nominations. The final honorees are approved by the deans of the two participating colleges.
“There are innumerable agriculture, family and community leaders who not only epitomize what it means to be an Eminent Leader, but they are unsung heroes to their families and community at large,” said Evan Ortlieb, dean of the College of Education and Human Sciences. “They work tirelessly and are the go getters that communities rely upon. Their blue-collar work ethic drives them forward, and it is the least our colleges can do to honor these individuals who make a difference daily.”
The 2026 recipients will be recognized during a banquet at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center on the SDSU campus on Sept. 18, 2026, Portraits of the honorees are unveiled during the event and later displayed online and in Berg Agricultural Hall.
Tickets are available through Sept. 4, 2026, with the reception beginning at 5:30 p.m. and the banquet and recognition program at 6:30 p.m. Purchase tickets online on Eventbrite.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, General