USD Alumni Receive South Dakota Superintendent Awards
Recipients include Jeff Danielsen, Ed.D. '29; Justin Downes, Ed.S. '14; Summer Schultz, Ed.D. '14; and Louie Krogman '13.
“We are incredibly proud that four of the five 2025 SDSSA award recipients are either alumni or current students of the University of South Dakota,” said Amy Schweinle, Ph.D., dean of the School of Education. “This recognition is a testament to the strength of our educational leadership programs and the profound impact our graduates are making across South Dakota’s schools and communities.”
2025 Outstanding Superintendent – Jeff Danielsen, Ed.D. '19, Educational Administration, Superintendent, Watertown Public School District
An experienced and dedicated educational leader, Danielsen has served as a superintendent in South Dakota for over 20 years, following earlier roles as a principal and teacher. With a doctorate in educational administration and advanced degrees in leadership and technology, he has led impactful initiatives across multiple districts. Currently, he oversees a large K–12 system and technical institute in Watertown, guiding strategic planning, major facility improvements and a district-wide 1:1 technology program. He previously led similar efforts in the West Central and Hanson School Districts, including new construction projects, technology integration and the launch of education foundations. A strong advocate for professional collaboration, Danielsen has served on numerous boards, including as president of the South Dakota School Superintendents Association, South Dakota High School Activities Association and as a member of the Secretary of Education’s Advisory Council.
2025 Community Leader of the Year – Justin Downes, Ed.S. '14, Educational Leadership, School District Superintendent, Milbank School District
With a career dedicated to public education and community growth, Downes has served in various leadership roles across South Dakota, including teacher, principal and superintendent. Beginning his career as a middle school math teacher in Mobridge, he went on to serve the Frederick Area School District as a K-12 principal and superintendent. His leadership continued in Corsica-Stickney and Arlington before becoming the superintendent of the Milbank School District in 2019, where he currently serves. Known for his strong community partnerships, student-focused leadership and commitment to collaboration, Downes has consistently worked to strengthen the connection between schools and the communities they serve. His ability to foster trust, lead with integrity and engage stakeholders has made a lasting impact in every district he has served.
2025 Innovator of the Year – Summer Schultz, Ed.D. '14, Educational Administration, School District Superintendent, Brookings Public Schools
With over 17 years of leadership experience, Schultz has consistently championed forward-thinking solutions to meet the evolving needs of students, educators and communities. Currently serving as superintendent of Brookings Public Schools, she co-developed the Brookings Childcare Collaborative, establishing a licensed, full-day pre-K program with continuous care. Her leadership includes launching a Child Development Associate pathway program, giving South Dakota high school students early access to education careers. Schultz has led facility projects, advocated nationally for early childhood education and workforce development and teaches graduate courses in educational leadership. She has served as president of the South Dakota School Superintendents Association and presented at national conferences on mental health and innovation. Schultz’s creative, student-focused leadership continues to shape the future of education in South Dakota and beyond.
2025 Rookie of the Year – Louie Krogman '13, Current Student in Educational Administration and Leadership, Superintendent, White River School District
Since becoming superintendent of the White River School District in 2022, Krogman has demonstrated exceptional leadership rooted in his guiding vision: “Every student, every day.” His early efforts have focused on staff and student well-being and have increased family engagement and meaningful collaboration. He introduced leadership training, family engagement nights and individual staff listening sessions, fostering trust and inclusion across the district. Under his leadership, the district launched content-level teams for curriculum alignment, updated its website for better community access and enhanced campus safety with upgraded communication systems and security. Drawing from his experience as a principal, teacher and coach in White River and Todd County, Krogman leads with a grounded and student-centered approach. He actively uses the district’s strategic plan to drive decision-making, turning it into a living guide for continuous improvement. His dedication, innovation and heart for the community make him a standout recipient.
The recipients will be honored at the annual Superintendent Conference in July of 2025.
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