Senator Helene Duhamel was announced as the third annual Distinguished Public Service Award recipient, celebrating her decades of dedication to improving our communities through public service.
Created in 2023, this award recognizes individuals who give selflessly, not for recognition but because service is central to who they are. Senator Duhamel exemplifies this spirit through her work in journalism, public service, and advocacy for western South Dakota.
Senator Duhamel has been a driving force in securing long-term water availability for Rapid City and Western South Dakota. Her leadership has advanced critical studies and planning efforts that lay the groundwork for future water rights and access; work that will shape the region for generations. Her advocacy to bring Missouri River water west is a multi-generational initiative, one she champions knowing the full benefits may come long after her time in office
Tom Johnson, CEO & President, Elevate Rapid City (left) and Tom Weaver, Market President, Dacotah Bank (right) present Senator Helene Duhamel the 2025 Distinguished Public Service Award at the Elevate Rapid City Annual Meeting.
Beyond water infrastructure, Senator Duhamel has been a steadfast supporter of Ellsworth Air Force Base and the families who serve. She has led efforts that strengthen the base, bolster the Douglas School District, enhance public safety, and expand educational opportunities for military children. Her commitment reflects a deep understanding of what it takes to sustain a strong, resilient, and thriving region.
A Legacy of Storytelling and Community Impact
Senator Duhamel, a third-generation broadcaster and fifth-generation South Dakotan, carries the legacy of her grandmother, Helen S. Duhamel, who introduced television to western South Dakota. Helene’s own career began in 1981 at KOTA-TV in Rapid City as a summer intern. After graduating from Stanford University in Mass Communications in 1984, she reported on major events, including the Democratic National Convention in San Francisco.
Over 35 years, she excelled as a reporter, anchor, producer, and assignment editor, often shooting, writing, and editing her own stories. She became a trusted voice in our region, covering topics that mattered to families and communities.
Courage and Care Through Challenge
At age 29, while raising her infant daughter, Helene was diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma. She stepped down from her role as News Director but continued sharing important health information through her “Family Healthcast,” which ran for 25 years. By documenting her own cancer journey on air, including surgery, chemotherapy, and a double mastectomy, she offered guidance, comfort, and hope to countless South Dakota families.
Her journalism earned numerous awards, including the Tom Brokaw Broadcast Award, the Jane Lofgren Media Award from the American Cancer Society, and multiple recognitions from the Associated Press, United Press International, and the National Federation of Press Women.
Serving Our Community in New Ways
In 2017, Helene transitioned to serve the public as the Public Information Officer for the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office. Two years later, she joined the South Dakota Senate and has since been re-elected three times, including two terms as Majority Whip. She champions initiatives like securing Missouri River water for western South Dakota, demonstrating her commitment to our region’s long-term well-being.
Even after an aggressive lung cancer diagnosis last March, she continues to serve with resilience and determination, committed to making western South Dakota a better place for future generations.
Honoring a Life of Dedication
“Senator Duhamel is the epitome of servant leadership,” said Tom Johnson, CEO & President of Elevate Rapid City. “She has repeatedly put her own political career and reputation at risk for the benefit of West River and this community. Whether it’s future water use, airport funding, or childcare, she is at the forefront of doing good. When I think of her, what comes to mind is always this: she makes a difference in the lives of others.”
We are proud to recognize Senator Helene Duhamel as the 2025 Distinguished Public Service Award recipient. Her courage, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our community inspire us all.
Previous award recipients include:
- Mike Diedrich, 2023
- Qusi Al-Haj, 2024