Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Department of Education awarded four South Dakota students the honorary Richard Hagen-Minerva Harvey Memorial State Scholarship. This scholarship recognizes exemplary students enrolled in an American Indian tribe who have demonstrated strong commitments to learning, leadership, and service. 

With this award students receive a minimum of $1,000 for each of the first two years, $1,500 for the third year, and $2,500 for the fourth year of postsecondary education.

These students actively support their communities through various service projects and volunteer opportunities in addition to participating in school activities, sports, and organizations. Each student’s ability to navigate academics, extracurriculars, and community involvement are key attributes that emphasize their well-deserved recognition as student role models.

The 2026 Richard Hagen-Minerva Harvey Memorial State Scholarship recipients are:

• Hayden Thompson, Timber Lake High School;
• Kylan West, Douglas High School;
• Marlee Wells, Lyman High School; and
• Rory Kiyukan, Andes Central High School.

Thompson is a member of the National Honor Society, a Sentinel Officer in FFA, Vice-President of the Native American Club, and a Peer Buddy for Panther Pals. 

West is a member of the National Honor Society, a student aide, and helps her father at the Tribal Food Pantry to provide free food bags in the community.

Wells is part of Student Council, FFA, and is a Jobs for Americas Graduates-South Dakota (JAG-SD) state officer. Wells also serves as a Freshman Impact volunteer for her school.

Kiyukan is a member of the National Honor Society and served as class president for two years. Additionally, Kiyukan volunteered for three years for a community youth group.

“These students have gone beyond achieving academic success,” said Secretary of Education Dr. Joseph Graves. “They have devoted their free time outside of the classroom to establish lifelong qualities of servantship. I am pleased to congratulate each of these students on this admirable honor.”

To learn more about the Richard Hagen-Minerva Harvey Memorial State Scholarship, visit doe.sd.gov/scholarships/HagenHarvey.aspx.

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