Presented to
Dan Wenk
Dan Wenk receives the 2002 Ben
Black Elk Award
from Governor William J. Janklow.
The Ben Black Elk Award is presented annually to an individual whose passion and enthusiasm greatly influences South Dakota’s visitor industry. With his keen vision and strong leadership, this year’s recipient is eminently qualified.
Wenk’s career with the National Park Service began in 1975, as a Landscape Architect with the Denver Service Center. In 1979, he stepped into a similar position at Yellowstone National Park, handling the planning and developing aspects for this American treasure.
Wenk's history with South Dakota’s visitor industry began in 1985, when he was named Superintendent of Mount Rushmore National Memorial and thrust into the spotlight of the state’s visitor industry.
Before long, Wenk was not only managing the world-renowned attraction, but was working hand-in-hand with other visitor-industry entities to promote Mount Rushmore, the Black Hills region, and the entire state.
As Superintendent of Mount Rushmore, Wenk took a major risk by initiating a plan to renovate visitor services at the memorial. The comprehensive $56 million plan hinged on an ambitious public-private partnership. It was designed to enhance the visitor experience at Mount Rushmore and to accommodate the increasing number of visitors who came to the memorial.
Thanks to Wenk's persistence and passion, the renovation was completed in 1998. However, it was anything but a simple undertaking. He endured harsh criticisms and public challenges along the way. And he faced these head-on, working hard to overcome concerns and boldly going face-to-face with his critics.
Wenk even managed to turn some of his mightiest foes into fans, who were in awe of his diplomacy and dedication. He never lost his cool or his sense of humor.
Always on the lookout for a new challenge, Wenk then worked with a small committee, which was determined to promote the new facilities to the world. Together, they created a highly visible event: an Independence Day celebration, complete with fireworks, at Mount Rushmore. Many government officials might try to avoid the extra work and stress such an event would bring with it. But not this gentleman.
Dubbed as one of the nation’s top 10 largest fireworks displays, the fireworks at Mount Rushmore, held on the eve of July Fourth, has become a tradition at America’s "Shrine of Democracy," drawing 20,000 spectators. And, last year, the event was shared with 10 million television viewers nationwide via satellite feed.
Just last month, Wenk was promoted within the National Park Service and left South Dakota. He now directs the Denver Service Center, which is responsible for all major planning, design and construction projects throughout the Park Service.
Like one of his co-workers put it: "Look out, because his career is like a rocket and he’s headed for the top!"
