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Story by Lura Roti

The South ��ֱ���� State University colleges of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences and Education and Human Sciences honor Reid Christopherson, Garretson; Wallace Knock, Willow Lake; Jeff Lakner, Wessington, and Greg Moes, Goodwin, with the 2025 Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family and Community ��ֱ����. 

For nearly a century, this time-honored award has recognized South ��ֱ����ns for their contributions of leadership and service on the local, state and national levels. 

“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 ��ֱ���� Corn Endowed Dean 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.” 

Established in 1927, the annual award formerly known as the Eminent Farmer/Rancher and Homemaker ��ֱ���� is a true South ��ֱ���� tradition with a legacy of more than 300 recipients. 

Confidential nominations are reviewed, and honorees are recommended by a committee of faculty members, administrators, SDSU Extension personnel and past award recipients. The honorees are approved by the deans of the two 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 remain outcomes-based despite any circumstance. 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.” 

Celebrate South ��ֱ����’s Eminent Leaders Sept. 19 

The 2025 award recipients will be recognized during a banquet held at the McCrory Gardens Education and Visitor Center on the SDSU campus Sept. 19. During the banquet, portraits of the award recipients will be unveiled. These portraits will be displayed in a virtual gallery. 

To attend the Sept. 19 recognition banquet and program, tickets are . Tickets need to be purchased on or before Sept. 5. The reception begins at 5:30 p.m. followed by a banquet and recognition program at 6:30 p.m. 

To learn more about the award or to nominate an individual for the award, contact Angela Loftesness, Eminent Leaders in Agriculture, Family, and Community program chair, via email or 605-688-6732.