By Scout Nelson
South Dakota State University is inviting nominations for its 2026 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community awards. The program recognizes individuals who have shown strong leadership and long-term service in improving agriculture, families, and local communities.
This year marks the 99th anniversary of the awards program, which began in 1927. The program highlights people who make meaningful contributions and support growth in agriculture and community life across South Dakota.
The awards are presented by the College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences along with the College of Education and Human Sciences. These colleges aim to honor individuals who work hard to strengthen farming practices, support families, and improve community well-being.
Nominees should have made important contributions in agriculture, family programs, or community development. They should promote good farming practices, support family growth, and help improve their local or national communities. The nominees should also be known for giving their time, talent, and leadership in a selfless way.
There is no age limit for nominees, but they must be alive at the time of selection. Spouses can also be nominated, but each person must have a separate form. Nominees must live in South Dakota. If they worked at SDSU before, they should not have been employed there within the past five years. Each nomination must include three to five letters of support.
The official nomination form is available online, and interested individuals can request a printed copy if needed.
All nominations must be submitted by May 1 to be considered for the current year, though submissions are accepted throughout the year. Please send nominations to: ELAFC Nominations; ATTN: Angela Loftesness, SDSU CAFES Dean's Office, Box 2207, Brookings, SD 57007, or e-mail Loftesness at angela.loftesness@sdstate.edu.
The award ceremony is scheduled for September 18 at McCrory Gardens in Brookings. This event will recognize selected leaders and their valuable contributions.
This program continues to honor individuals who help build strong agriculture systems, support families, and improve communities in South Dakota.
Photo Credit: south-dakota-state-university
Categories: South Dakota, Rural Lifestyle