Governor Kristi Noem recognized Rodney and Peggy Anderson, of Dell Rapids, with the Governor's Heroism Award for their commitment to foster care and adoption. The couple has adopted nine children out of the foster care system, and have served as foster parents to many more.
The announcement was part of the governor's State of the State address Tuesday before a joint session of lawmakers. Noem read from a statement by an unnamed Family Services specialist who has worked with the Andersons. The statement said in part, "They have some of the toughest kids I've ever had on my caseload. And they handle them with patience and grace."
Noem asked the couple to stand and be recognized by the audience.
"Rod and Peggy Anderson are heroes. They're heroes for how they've changed these kids' lives. And this year, I'd like to recognize Rodney and Peggy Anderson with the 2022 Governor's Heroism Award. Let's thank them and every foster parent."
Noem created the Governor's Heroism Award three years ago to recognize South Dakotans who go "above and beyond" to serve their communities. This portion of the State of the State address also covered the governor's goal to expand access to adoption and foster care services.
