Meet the 2025 South Dakota Hall of Fame Inductees

On Monday, October 20th, we will sit down with the 2025 inductees to the South Dakota Hall of Fame. Inductees or family members joining us are:

Greg Carmon – A visionary entrepreneur and dedicated philanthropist, Greg Carmon has made a lasting mark on South Dakota through both business innovation and community investment. After transforming a small railcar repair shop into the thriving Midwest Railcar Repair in Brandon, Greg used his success to fuel wide-reaching philanthropic efforts across the state. Deeply committed to his hometown of DeSmet, he led projects like the visionary Sculpture Trail to boost local tourism. A founding member of the Build Dakota Scholarship board and a strong advocate for education, conservation, and youth programs, Greg has supported initiatives ranging from the Arc of Dreams and Special Olympics to the fight against human trafficking. His enduring legacy is defined by his humble leadership, generous spirit, and a passion for making South Dakota a better place to live, work, and grow.

Michael Huether – A visionary leader and dynamic changemaker, Mike Huether served two terms as mayor of Sioux Falls, transforming the city into a national model of growth and innovation. With a background in executive leadership at PREMIER Bankcard, where he helped build the 10th largest credit card company in the U.S., Mike brought a results-driven mindset to public service. Under his leadership, Sioux Falls launched transformative projects including the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Midco Aquatics Center, and Levitt Shell, while preserving the city’s strong financial standing. Beyond politics, Mike champions leadership and public service through the Mike Huether Public Service Academy at SDSU and the Huether Foundation, which supports causes across South Dakota. An author, TV host, and lifelong volunteer, Mike continues to inspire others to lead boldly, serve passionately, and leave every community better than they found it.

Chief Justice Robert A. Miller – A transformative figure in South Dakota’s legal history, Chief Justice Robert A. Miller modernized and unified the state’s judiciary, setting national standards for excellence. Appointed to the South Dakota Supreme Court in 1986 and named Chief Justice in 1990, he led the court for 11 years, continuing to serve in national judicial leadership roles for over a decade after retirement. Miller chaired the U.S. State Justice Institute for 12 years, advocating for reform and innovation in courts nationwide. He pioneered partnerships between state and Tribal courts, championed civic education, and opened court proceedings to public view, making the judicial system more accessible and accountable. Known for his clarity in legal opinions and unwavering ethical standards, Miller’s career spanned nearly 50 years of public service. A lifelong servant leader, his impact on South Dakota will resonate for generations.

Walter Schaefer (1935-2023) – Born on a farm near Winfred, SD, Walt Schaefer (1935-2023) devoted his life to service, most notably during his 28-year tenure as Executive Director of McCrossan Boys Ranch. There, he served as a father figure to over 1,200 boys, believing every young man deserved another chance. Through compassion, discipline, and draft horse therapy, he helped transform lives. Walt also served in the U.S. Army Mental Health Services and held leadership roles at the Human Services Center, Prairie Village, and more. A lifelong horseman, he bred and exhibited Belgian horses for over 50 years, integrating them into youth development programs. Walt and his horses, along with McCrossan Boys Ranch, represented South Dakota in the Bicentennial Wagon Train traveling throughout the state before arriving in Valley Forge, PA, on July 4, 1976. In 1989, Governor George S. Mickelson appointed Walt as the Wagon Master of the Eastern Division of the SD Centennial Wagon Train. Walt was also a 50-year member of Downtown Rotary.

The buffet lunch will be available for purchase at the door beginning at 11:30 am. The menu will be announced soon.

The presentation, at the club’s regular weekly meeting, will be held at the South Dakota Military Heritage Alliance in Sioux Falls and will begin at noon. All Downtown Sioux Falls Rotary Club programs are open only to Rotarians and their guests. All programs are subject to the club's Privacy Policy. Local media are invited to attend to record the session.



Rotary International is one of the premier service organizations in the world. The Rotary Club of Downtown Sioux Falls is among the largest 15 clubs in the world. For more information on how to become a mentor or involve your organization in mentoring visit Sioux52.org.