FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Nancy Rodriguez
Washington, DC — The American Constitution Society (ACS) is proud to announce the selection of Brendan V. Johnson, former United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota, to its esteemed Board of Directors.
“It is my great pleasure to welcome Brendan to the ACS Board,” said Ambassador Keith M. Harper (ret.), chair of the ACS Board of Directors. “Brendan’s deep commitment to justice, his distinguished record of public service, and his dedication to strengthening our democracy make him an invaluable addition to our leadership. His insight and experience will be especially helpful as we work to expand our presence in new geographic regions and strengthen our network. We look forward to the vision and energy he will bring to the board and ACS.”
A Leader from South Dakota
The selection of Brendan V. Johnson emphasizes a significant focus on South Dakota, a state rich in cultural heritage and legal achievements. As a native of the state, Johnson has a strong connection to the region’s roots and has worked tirelessly to improve justice and law enforcement areas. During his tenure as the United States Attorney for the District of South Dakota from 2009 to 2015, he led initiatives that were crucial in addressing challenges faced by the native tribes, reflecting the diverse demographic and interests of South Dakota.
Johnson served on the Senate-confirmed United States Attorney for South Dakota, where he passionately led the U.S. Department of Justice’s Native American Issues Subcommittee. This role not only increased his understanding of critical legal issues but also underscored his enduring commitment to addressing the needs of Native American communities, a key demographic in South Dakota.
The substantial contributions of South Dakota were further acknowledged as Brendan V. Johnson was celebrated with numerous awards. These accolades include being named South Dakota’s Trial Lawyer of the Year in 2024. His accomplishments also earned him recognition from the University of South Dakota’s Women in Law, awarding him the Attorney of the Year Award in 2013.
Focus on Growth and Expansion
In his new role at ACS, Brendan V. Johnson’s connection to South Dakota presents an opportunity to enhance the society’s outreach in the state and beyond. This ambition aligns with Johnson’s strategic vision, which he developed during his time at Robins Kaplan LLP as a Partner and Member of the Executive Board. He currently chairs the National Business Litigation Group and co-chairs the Government and Internal Investigations Group, splitting his time between Minneapolis and Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
American Constitution Society
His work at Robins Kaplan LLP reinforces his commitment to addressing the distinct legal landscapes with profound ramifications in cases involving both business and government investigations.
Johnson’s achievements and efforts are positioned to serve as a catalyst for broader community engagement and progressive legal policies in South Dakota. This objective is crucial for a state characterized by unique socio-economic dimensions and dynamic legal needs.
Promoting Equality and Justice
The American Constitution Society remains committed to its mission of redressing the founding failures of the U.S. Constitution and promoting the rule of law. The inclusion of Johnson from South Dakota, with its strong ties to both indigenous and rural interests, represents an essential step in this mission. It highlights a dedication to the principles of equality, inclusivity, and justice across diverse groups nationwide.
Through its network of progressive lawyers, law students, judges, scholars, and advocates, ACS looks forward to leveraging Johnson’s insights. His background in South Dakota will provide fresh perspectives and invaluable contributions, particularly concerning the legal challenges and opportunities within this state.
The integration of professionals like Brendan V. Johnson into ACS’s leadership aims to inspire similar outstanding legal practitioners across the country, focusing on geographical diversification and strengthening legal frameworks that protect historically marginalized communities.
For more information, visit the American Constitution Society at www.acslaw.org