The South Dakotan Lawyer is the story hub of the USD Knudson School of Law. Here you’ll find stories and news highlighting the meaningful contributions of our students, faculty and staff, and alumni.
The Latest
Aug 04, 2026
USD Knudson School of Law Welcomes Class of 2029
The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law will welcome 94 first-year students this fall.
Jul 22, 2026
USD Knudson School of Law Graduate Aidan Mullaney Honored with Pro Bono Service Award
Aidan Mullaney, J.D., a 2026 University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law graduate, was recognized with the William F. Day Jr. Law Student Pro Bono Award at the South Dakota State Bar Convention.
Jul 21, 2026
USD Knudson School of Law Professor Elected to the American Law Institute
University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law Professor Tom Simmons, J.D. ’98, has been elected to join the American Law Institute (ALI).
Jul 17, 2026
Pete Heidepriem Joins Knudson School of Law as Professor of Indian Law
The University of South Dakota’s Knudson School of Law is pleased to announce the appointment of Pete Heidepriem, J.D., as the new assistant professor of Indian Law.
Alumni
Jacobsen, Orr, Lindstrom & Holbrook Hire USD Alumnus Austin Printz
Austin Printz, ’19, ’13, alumnus of the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, has been hired by Jacobsen, Orr, Lindstrom & Holbrook, P.C., L.L.O., of Kearney, Nebraska.
Knudson School of Law Alumna Jackie Barber Appointed Secretary of the Senate for 119th Congress
Jackie Barber, a 2006 graduate of the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law, has been appointed to serve as the secretary of the U.S. Senate for the 119th Congress. Barber brings a wealth of service-minded experience and dedication to this role.
Brigadier General Christopher Kennebeck Delivers Gunderson Lecture at USD Knudson School of Law
This fall, Brigadier General Christopher A. Kennebeck returned to the USD Knudson School of Law to deliver the prestigious Gunderson Lecture. Drawing from his extensive careers in the military, law and education, Kennebeck offered heartfelt advice to students, emphasizing adaptability, passion and purpose.
More Headlines
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Serving the Public Good: How an Innovative Program is Building Future Lawyer Leaders
Summary: South Dakotans are no strangers to a strong sense of civic responsibility; from public school classrooms to the Attorney General’s Office, the state is home to countless spaces and organizations that embody service.
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USD Knudson School of Law Introduces Course Focused on Civil Rights
Summary: During the 2025-2026 academic year, the University of South Dakota’s Knudson School of Law began offering a new course dedicated to civil rights law. The class explores various legal precedents under the Civil Rights Act of 1871.
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Inside the Class of 2026: A Conversation with Three USD Knudson School of Law Graduates
Summary: After three years studying at the University of South Dakota’s Knudson School of Law, the Class of 2026 has graduated to the next step in their journeys.
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Knudson School of Law Professors Honored at Faculty Awards Ceremony
Summary: The excellence, service and leadership of faculty were on full display at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law’s 2026 Faculty Awards and Scholarship Recognition Ceremony.
Guest Column
I received a great education while at the University of South Dakota and had some really beneficial mentorship, so I felt very prepared for the field. As the state's only law school, we get a lot of networking opportunities that other schools don't.
Weaving Justice Into Rural South Dakota
Rachelle Norberg '18 makes connections that strengthen the community she serves.
