USD Law Graduate Committed to Rural Legal Practice
Norberg earned her bachelor’s degree from USD in 2015, majoring in political science and economics. Her initial experience in Vermillion convinced her to stay for law school.
“I already loved the community of Vermillion,” Norberg said. “And I knew USD Law was going to let me do a lot of different things than just focus on one area.”
Norberg also said USD’s expertise in Indian law attracted her to the program.
“USD is one of just a handful of law schools in the country to offer an Indian law specialization. It was important to me to take Indian law classes and better understand state-tribal relations and the differences Indian law has to any other jurisdiction,” she said.
At USD, Norberg has excelled in a variety of student groups and activities. She was the president of the Women in Law group her second year, and is the current president of the Alternative Dispute Resolution Board team. Additionally, she’s active on the trial team, the Native American Law Student Association, and serves as a teaching assistant.
While she’s enjoyed her time in Vermillion, she’s excited to return to Gregory County where she grew up.
She said the opportunity fell into place after Jack Gunvordahl, the principal partner at Gunvordahl Law Office decided to retire after 40 years of practice. Norberg had interned at the firm after her first year.
“I really didn’t expect for this to be the plan, but I realized this was my chance to return home,” Norberg said. “I’m excited to get involved in the community.”
Norberg is also officially enrolled in the Project Rural Practice program sponsored by the South Dakota Bar Association and State of South Dakota to assist rural areas with legal services. As part of her agreement with Gregory County, Norberg will take on criminal defense matters–work she became familiar with while interning for the Rapid City State’s Attorney’s office.
Norberg said Gunvordahl will continue to assist her through the transition. She also said she’ll rely on the firm’s experienced staff as she begins to manage the practice; however, she is not intimidated by the challenge.
“I’ve met so many great mentors and friends at USD,” Norberg said. “I feel ready.”
