Ann McKay Thompson

Ann McKay Thompson

Ann is an outstanding educator, nationally recognized for creating educational, innovative programs for both traditional-age and adult learners. As founder and president of the state's first university center, she has been called "the architect of a concept that changed the course of culture in the state." A prominent contributor to the arts and humanities, she served as president of the South Dakota Humanities Council and the South Dakota Art Museum, and founder and president of the South Dakota Discovery Center. Distinguished in executive management, Ann was one of the first women to serve in the Cabinet of a South Dakota governor, initially as Assistant Secretary of the Department of Education, and then as Secretary of Labor. Since university days, when Ann was "Miss South Dakota," and chair of the state's Commission on the Status of Women, her life has been dedicated to serving all South Dakotans with a strong commitment to ensuring new opportunities and a level playing field for women. In 2020, the United States marked the centennial of the 19th Amendment to the Constitution, commemorating women's right to vote. Honoring this event in South Dakota, Ann served as a delegate of the Her Vote. Her Voice. women’s history initiative which celebrated the event by providing education and advocacy across the state.

Consider lifting up an incredible woman in your life today as a part of Women's History Month. Visit www.hervotehervoice.org/statewide-honor-wall to get started.