(Huron, S.D.) — Candice K. Lockner of Ree Heights was named the 2026 Spirit of Dakota Award winner at a gala banquet celebrating the 40th Anniversary of Spirit of Dakota on Saturday, October 3, 2026, in Huron, S.D. The Spirit of Dakota Award is presented annually to an outstanding South Dakota wom an who reflects the Spirit of Dakota through leadership, vision, courage and strength of character, and who, by her example, inspires others to make a difference in their communities and throughout the state. Inspiration for the award is the nine-foot Spirit of Dakota sculpture created by South Dakota Artist Laureate Dale Lamphere. The bronze sculpture stands at the entrance to the Crossroads Hotel in Huron. A special guest at the 40th Anniversary Celebration was Lamphere, sculptor of Spirit of Dakota, and his wife, Jane Murphy. Lockner was among 13 outstanding South Dakota women nominated by their communities to be honored during the Spirit of Dakota 40th Anniversary Celebration. ...read more read less