David Gilbertson served as South Dakota’s longest-tenured chief justice, leading the state’s judicial branch for two decades and helping shape a more accessible and innovative court system.

A native of Sisseton, Gilbertson began his legal career as a prosecutor before being appointed to the Fifth Judicial Circuit in 1986. In 1995, he was appointed to the South Dakota Supreme Court and was elected chief justice in 2001, serving five terms in that role before retiring in 2021.

Throughout his career, Gilbertson championed initiatives that strengthened South Dakota communities, including the creation of specialty courts for veterans, individuals with addiction, and those facing mental health challenges. He also helped establish the nationally recognized Rural Attorney Recruitment Program, which continues to improve access to legal services across the state.

His leadership extended beyond South Dakota through service as president of the Conference of Chief Justices and chair of the Board of the National Center for State Courts.

An avid student of history, Gilbertson has long appreciated the role historical understanding plays in shaping public institutions and civic life. He brings that perspective, along with decades of public service and leadership, to his work on the board.