Neiman receives honorary doctorate from BHSU

Jim D. Neiman, president/CEO of Neiman Enterprises, was presented with an honorary doctorate from Black Hills State University at the 187th Commencement Ceremony May 4.

The honorary doctorate is the highest honor bestowed by the South Dakota Board of Regents and the universities. The purpose of the honorary doctorate is to pay tribute to worthy individuals and at the same time enhance the universities by such action. Neiman received a Doctor of Public Service.

"I have had the opportunity to travel all over the state and to all the universities. That really gave me a good insight into education in South Dakota. But most importantly, to find out how important this university is to the state, the area, and the Black Hills," Neiman said in his address to the graduates. "I feel very humbled and very honored to be here with you."

Jim Neiman is the third generation of his family to work in the forest products industry. His grandfather, A.C. Neiman, started a sawmill in the Black Hills in 1936, and his dad, James S. Neiman, is still actively involved in the family's ranch and timber businesses.

Jim Neiman is currently the President/CEO of Neiman Enterprises in Hulett, Wyoming, and a member of the Black Hills Forest Resource Association, Intermountain Forest Association, Federal Forest Resource Coalition and the 10th District Economic Advisory Council for the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City.

In 2021, the BHSU Foundation received a gift of $345,000 from Neiman Enterprises Inc./Neiman Timber Co. LC. to establish a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology with a specialization in Forest and Grassland Ecology. The gift is funding a faculty position and $15,000 annually for student scholarships for three years.