Stanford Adelstein:  

Life In 2004, Adelstein was named South Dakota Philanthropist of the Year by the Governor's Office and, in 1991, he received the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce's prestigious "George Award"- so named because the recipient "didn't let George do it, he did it himself." Stanford Adelstein has made his mark in business, government and community service, while also providing major support for the arts and for religion in South Dakota. He earned bachelor degrees in civil engineering and business administration from the University of Colorado, and then served in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. In 1957, he went to work for Northwestern Engineering Company, a Rapid City business built by his father. Over time, NWE grew into one of the region's largest heavy highway construction companies. Stan Adelstein became company president in 1968, and under his leadership NWE acquired and developed numerous quarry, commercial and residential properties. He organized plans for a new library building in Rapid City and with Mayor Art LaCroix he helped lead the struggle to build the Rushmore Plaza Civic Center, which took two strongly controversial election. He later helped start The Journey Museum, then raised funds and donated his own money to ensure the museum's survival. In 2003, Adelstein provided the funds to refurbish and light the Charles Holloway mural, “The Peace That Passes Understanding,” in the South Dakota Hall of Representatives Chamber. He helped buy a Thermosphere for the Cultural Heritage Center, has sponsored several "City of Presidents" bronze statues in downtown Rapid City, and since 2000 has annually provided $9,500 for the Rapid City Arts Council to use as needed for “targets of opportunity,” which otherwise would be unfunded. He served on the South Dakotans for the Arts board. He received the Governor's Award for Outstanding Su...Expand for more