ABERDEEN, S.D. (NSU) – Daniel Gallagher, a 2018 graduate of Northern State University, was in for a surprise during a school assembly at Aberdeen Roncalli when he was announced as a 2025 Milken Educator Award winner. The middle school science teacher received the prestigious honor, which comes with a $25,000 cash prize.

Gallagher, who earned degrees in elementary education and history from Northern, is the only South Dakota educator to receive the award this year. Often called the “Oscars of Teaching,” the Milken Educator Award recognizes exceptional teachers who make a lasting impact on their students and school communities.

“I feel incredibly honored and humbled to receive this award,” Gallagher said. “While my name is on it, it’s truly a reflection of all the amazing people who have influenced me—my family and friends, the teachers and coaches at Aberdeen Roncalli, my professors at Northern State University, and the students and coworkers I’m lucky to work with today.”

Gallagher knew early on that he wanted to become a teacher. “I felt called to make an impact and serve others,” he said. “I couldn’t think of a better career than teaching because I saw firsthand how much my own teachers shaped my life.”

His time at Northern State University played a key role in that decision. “One of the most valuable experiences I had at NSU was student teaching with Brennan Goehring,” he said. “Watching him connect with his students and make a difference in their lives made it clear to me—this was exactly what I wanted to do.”

At Roncalli, Gallagher teaches sixth through eighth-grade science, using hands-on, project-based lessons to keep students engaged. Outside the classroom, he’s just as involved. He coaches Roncalli’s boys’ basketball team and serves as an assistant football coach, helping his athletes develop confidence, teamwork, and discipline.

In April 2025, Gallagher will travel to Los Angeles for a Milken Educator Awards event, where he’ll connect with other educators from across the country, share ideas, and gain new insights to bring back to his students.

The Milken Educator Awards have recognized outstanding teachers since 1987. More than 3,000 educators have received the honor, which includes a $25,000 award in appreciation of their contributions to education.

For more information on Gallagher’s achievement, visit milkeneducatorawards.org.