In the heart of the Midwest, where vast prairies meet the Missouri River, South Dakota continues to make waves—not only through its picturesque landscapes but also through its ambitious young scholars. The recent announcement of Grace Schultz and Tanner Reed as the Summit League’s Swim and Dive Scholars of the Championships underscores the intellectual depth and excellence harbored in South Dakota.
The Summit League, renowned for nurturing athletic prowess and academic excellence in the region, honors top student-athletes from its 19 championships across various sports. Grace Schultz, a senior marketing major from Merrill, Wisconsin, and Tanner Reed, a junior studying medical biology from Denver, have risen above their peers, exhibiting stellar academic achievements at the University of South Dakota (USD).
South Dakota Athletics
USD, located in Vermillion, has long been a bedrock of educational and athletic success in South Dakota. The Coyotes, as they are affectionately known, have nurtured talent across disciplines, reflecting the state’s commitment to fostering future leaders. Grace Schultz and Tanner Reed’s recent recognition serves as a testament to this mission.
Grace Schultz: Marketing Maven
Hailing from Merrill, Wisconsin, Grace Schultz’s journey to becoming a scholar of distinction at USD is marked by relentless dedication. A prominent figure in the women’s swimming and diving team, Schultz has balanced her athletic commitments with remarkable academic achievements. She has been named to the Academic All-Summit League team for the past two seasons, consistently earning a place on the Summit League Honor Roll for three consecutive years.
Beyond the accolades, Schultz’s prowess extends to the Summit League Commissioner’s List of Academic Excellence for the past two seasons. Her accolades are further complemented by a nod from the Collegiate Swimming Coaches Association (CSCA) with an Academic All-District award after her junior year. Schultz’s story is one of grit and determination, attributes cherished by the South Dakota community.
Tanner Reed: Biologically Brilliant
Tanner Reed, a proud Denver native, has made his mark in South Dakota’s vibrant academic community through exceptional performance both in and out of the pool. Pursuing a degree in medical biology, Reed has managed to balance the rigors of academics with his commitments as a standout in men’s swimming and diving.
Reed’s academic journey has been punctuated by his inclusion in the Summit League Honor Roll for the past two seasons, alongside an entry in the Summit League Commissioner’s List of Academic Excellence following last season. His achievements epitomize the spirit of scholarly excellence that South Dakota pridefully upholds.
The Cultural Fabric of South Dakota
South Dakota’s contribution to academic and cultural achievements extends beyond individual accomplishments. With institutions like USD leading the charge, the state propels forward, making significant strides in education and athletics. The achievements of Schultz and Reed bring South Dakota’s rich history and promising future to the forefront, spotlighting the dedication to excellence that the state nurtures among its youth.
The announcement of Schultz and Reed’s accomplishments was made public on February 18, 2026, by Shayla Tuschen, a Communications Graduate Assistant. The recognition has certainly amplified South Dakota’s reputation within the Summit League and beyond, reinforcing its status as a cradle of academic and athletic brilliance.
Stay engaged with South Dakota Athletics, and witness firsthand the exceptional talent flourishing in the heart of America. Follow the Coyotes on Facebook, X (Twitter), and Instagram for real-time updates and exclusive insights into the vibrant athletic community of South Dakota.
Conclusion
As South Dakota fosters its next generation of leaders, the stories of Grace Schultz and Tanner Reed serve as beacons of inspiration. Their scholarly achievements are not only milestones of personal triumph but also a reflection of the community that supports and celebrates them. South Dakota continues to be a land of opportunity, where the confluence of hard work, dedication, and community spirit yields leaders ready to make a global impact.