Gov Scott Morris

A Story of Perseverance, Redemption & Service to South Dakota

Humble Beginnings

Scott was raised in northeastern South Dakota, living in towns such as Eden, Roslyn, Groton, Houghton, and Webster. Life wasn’t easy. His father died when Scott was just nine, leaving the family in poverty. They relied on commodities assistance, and Scott’s mother worked nights as a nurse’s aide to keep the family afloat.

His early years were marked by struggle — academic challenges, alcohol at a young age, and a convicted juvenille delinquent of grand theft auto, destruction of property and breaking an entering at age 10. But these hardships forged the grit and determination that would define his future.

Military Resume

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Turning Point: Military Service

At eighteen, Scott made a choice that changed his life: he enlisted in the United States AirForce. It became the foundation for his transformation. After serving on active duty, he joined the South Dakota Air National Guard, earned his commission, and graduated from South Dakota State University in 1995.

A 33-Year Military Career of Honor

Scott retired in 2023 after 33 years of service as a disabled veteran. His career spanned the globe and included:

Living on four continents
Travel to 44 countries
Five years working for NATO
Two years as a U.S. State Department diplomat in Kuwait
More than two years in combat zones
Over 10 years teaching night classes to adults for Univ. of Phoenix
Earning three advanced degrees

Scott’s achievements reflect discipline, humility, and a commitment to serving others.

Experiences That Shaped a Global Perspective

Throughout his military and diplomatic career, Scott had experiences few Americans encounter:

Seeing Mount Everest
Walking through the pyramids of Giza
Hiking Petra in Jordan
Skiing glaciers in Europe and Japan
Tracking tigers on elephant back
Being detained by Maoist insurgents in the jungle

These experiences broadened his understanding of leadership, freedom, and the role of America in the world — and reinforced his love for home.

Returning to Serve South Dakota

After retiring, Scott and his wife, Rebecca, a nurse at Avera, returned to South Dakota to give back to the communities that shaped them. Scott now substitute teaches, mentored a young man at McCrossan Boys Ranch, and continues to serve through education and outreach.

Their two daughters both attend SDSU — one aspiring to join the Air Force and the other working toward becoming a pharmacist.

A Leader Who Doesn’t Pretend — He Performs

Scott’s life is proof that adversity can produce strength and purpose. He often describes himself simply:

“Don't need a handout, just need an opportunity.”

Scott is a fighter — not a politician — committed to accountability, integrity, and protecting South Dakota families.