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.
Politics & Law
Serving the Public Good: How an Innovative Program is Building Future Lawyer Leaders
The Latest
Jun 12, 2026
USD Knudson School of Law Introduces Course Focused on Civil Rights
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.
Jun 05, 2026
Inside the Class of 2026: A Conversation with Three USD Knudson School of Law Graduates
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.
Mar 31, 2026
Professor Chris Schmidt Honored for Contributions to South Dakota’s Legal Practice
Chris Schmidt, J.D., assistant professor at the University of South Dakota’s Knudson School of Law, received the 2026 Cutler Award in recognition of the significant impact his work has on South Dakota’s legal landscape.
Apr 01, 2026
USD Knudson School of Law Students Attend Exclusive Conference in D.C.
Every year, a group of law students from across the country are chosen to attend the Columbus School of Law’s annual Judicial Clerkship Opinion Writing Conference.
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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Knudson School of Law Announces Tom Simmons as Inaugural Trusts and Estates Endowed Chair
Summary: Tom Simmons, J.D. ’98, ’91, a tenured faculty member at the University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law and a leading expert in trusts and estates, will serve as the inaugural McDowell, King, & South Dakota Trust Company Chair in Trusts and Estates Law..jpg?rev=a7bae9fa0f1048e69ca9241d8055ff8b&sc_lang=en&w=350&la=en&hash=7ED4B30AD95D57F3D9C20EB988A79086)
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Knudson School of Law Students Participate In South Dakota's Public Service Pathway Pilot Program
Summary: Nine USD Knudson School of Law students are on track to become members of the state bar in a brand-new way. The Public Service Pathway to Bar Admission Pilot Program was established by the South Dakota Supreme Court last spring and aims to encourage new lawyers to enter practice via the private sector.
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Celebrating 125 Years of Excellence, Service and Leadership
Summary: The University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law is a pillar of the law in South Dakota. That legacy is visible in every corner of the state.
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Students in the Public Service Pathways Pilot Program Complete First Semester
Summary: Nine University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law students have spent the entire fall semester working in public sector law offices across the state. Their supervised practice experience is part of the Public Service Pathway to Bar Admission Pilot Program, implemented by the South Dakota Supreme Court last spring.
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.
