The True Dakotan was recognized with multiple awards at the South Dakota NewsMedia Association’s 143rd annual convention, held last weekend in Deadwood.
Competing in Division 1, the newspaper earned five first-place honors across both editorial and advertising categories, highlighting its strength in reporting, writing, photography and digital presence.
Among the top awards, the True Dakotan received first place for Best Editorial Writing in the combined Division 1 and 2 category. Judges praised the entries as “the strongest blend of public-service purpose, persuasive clarity and local accountability,” noting the writing demonstrated “civic leadership” and a clear commitment to community trust.
The newspaper also earned first place in Division 1 for Best Local Government Story for coverage of the City of Wessington Springs’ Second Street project, with judges calling the reporting “thorough and complete” and “well-written and informative.”
A first-place award for Best Spot News Story recognized coverage of the loss of a local couple, with judges noting the story captured the tragedy while honoring the lives and memories of those involved.
In addition, the True Dakotan received first place for Best Publication Website, recognizing its digital platform, and first place in advertising for Best Use of Local Photography for work with A2 Aerial Solutions, praised for its effective use of black-andwhite imagery.
The newspaper also earned several second- and third-place finishes, including:
• Second place, Best Feature Photo — Smiles and Friendly Competition Highlight Foothills PlayDays
• Second place, Best News Series — Wessington Springs Selected for State Tourism Pilot Program
• Second place, Best Photo Series — The Next Generation of Wrestlers Hit the Mat: Pony Hills Hosts Youth Tournament
• Second place, Best Special Publication (Stand Alone Piece) — True Dakotan Outdoors
• Third place, Best Feature Story, Profile — Hoops, Highways and Heart
• Third place, Best Sports Photo — Graff’s 35 Points Power Spartans’ 281 Championship Comeback
• Third place, Best Use of Social Media — True Dakotan Social Media True Dakotan Editor/Publisher Kristi Hine said the recognition reinforces the importance of local storytelling.
“Small-town stories matter,” she said. “We’re committed to telling them with the accuracy and care they deserve.”