Turning Rural Curiosity into Civic Leadership

USD 30 Under 30 Honoree Caleb Weiland Turns Rural Curiosity into Civic Leadership

Long before he stepped into leadership roles or statewide politics, Caleb Weiland, a 2024 University of South Dakota graduate, paid close attention to how decisions were made and who they affected. That curiosity shaped his path at USD, where he began refining a commitment to civic leadership rooted in service and connection to rural communities. 

Raised on a farm just south of Beresford, a town of roughly 2,200 people in southeastern South Dakota, Weiland was always drawn to big-picture questions about government operations and how public policy can make an impact in rural communities like his own. 

By the seventh grade, he was following elections, debating issues in class and paying close attention to the systems around him. When it came to selecting a college, it was a no-brainer for Weiland to attend USD— the state’s premier institution for political science. 

“Growing up, I became interested in public policy and understanding how our systems are built and why they work the way that they do,” Weiland said. “That curiosity, combined with the Farber Funds and faculty support, made it possible for me to attend USD. I always knew I wanted a South Dakota education, and thanks to this assistance, my experience was, by far, second to none.” 

For Weiland, support came from professors and mentors like Eric Jepsen, Ph.D., chair of the Department of Political Science, John Dudley, Ph.D., dean of the College of Arts & Sciences and President Sheila K. Gestring. Through these connections, Weiland found organizations like the Student Government Association and the USD College Republicans, both of which provided him with leadership opportunities to represent his fellow students.

At the same time, he began campaigning for South Dakota Representative Dusty Johnson. The early exposure to politics reinforced his commitment to rural South Dakota and the importance of higher education in strengthening small communities. 

“Rural communities are real communities,” Weiland said. “When something happens, people show up. That’s who I am, and I am proud that’s where I come from.” 

Currently, Weiland serves as political director for Dusty Johnson’s campaign for Governor. In this role, he helps guide overall campaign strategy and coordinates key operations across South Dakota. He works closely with voters, volunteers and community leaders to build strong local networks, encourage civic participation and ensure voices from every part of the state are included in the political process. His background also informs his approach to strategic planning, helping connect the campaign’s priorities with the real challenges South Dakotans face. 

“You quickly understand that communities aren’t one-size-fits-all; each has its own challenges,” Weiland said. “USD does a great job at attracting rural students and encouraging them to invest back in where they came from.” 

Weiland’s dedication to public service and rural advocacy recently earned him a place in USD’s 30 Under 30 Class of 2025, which recognizes young alumni making a meaningful impact across the state. Looking ahead, Weiland plans to continue his work in public policy in South Dakota. 

“A combination of education and work experience together can break cycles of poverty, and USD did that for me,” Weiland said. “Coming from a small rural community, USD invested in me in ways I never expected and pushed me to become someone who works hard, leads with honesty and stays committed to solving real problems.”