James Clement to Serve as Grand Marshal for 2026 Dakota Days Parade
“It’s a very humbling feeling to be selected as Grand Marshal this year,” said Clement. “Dakota Days brings me ‘home’ and back to a blend of wonderful memories from my days as a student.”
Clement was first introduced to USD through his father, Dale, who came to South Dakota in 1963 to teach finance at the university. Dale then became dean of the School of Business—now the Beacom School of Business—and was known as “The Student’s Dean” due to his caring nature toward students.
With USD being a part of his childhood, Clement attended nearly every D-Days event. Eventually, he became a Coyote himself, graduating in 1988 with a B.S. in political science.
“Dakota Days continues to allow me to become acquainted with and develop relationships with today’s deans, faculty and staff,” he said. “It is a priority in my life to come back and celebrate with old friends while at the same time meeting new ones.”
Clement’s connection to USD has continued well beyond his years as a student. For more than 36 years, he has continued his family’s legacy of believing in people, potential and the power of education to change lives. His experience giving back to USD began with serving on the USD Alumni Association Board of Directors, a position he held for eight years.
His involvement with the university has also extended into athletics and student support. Over time, he has been an ardent supporter of USD Athletics, from contributing to the Sanford Coyote Sports Center and DakotaDome renovations to serving as a member of the Yote Fund Board of Directors. Today, Clement is an active member of the USD Foundation & Alumni Association, assisting with the Clement Coyote Beginnings Scholarship, which opens doors for students and builds upon the family’s legacy. In recognition of his commitment to USD, he received the Service to the University Alumni Achievement Award in 2018.
Outside of USD, Clement participates in the Sons of the American Revolution and his church choir. In his free time, he enjoys tennis and is involved in many outdoor activities. He currently is a senior vice president at RBC Wealth Management in Rapid City, South Dakota.
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