Milbank Native Dezmond Ward Named Chief of Staff for Senator Rounds

Senator Mike Rounds named Dezmond Ward as his new chief of staff on Monday, October 16.  Ward, 28, is a Milbank native, who has lived in Washington D.C., and worked in Rounds’ office since 2018.  Most recently, Ward served as the communications director for the second-term senator and former South Dakota governor.

“Dezmond has been a trusted member of my team for almost six years,” Rounds said. “Whatever the role, Dezmond has proven to have a strong work ethic and knowledge of issues both in South Dakota and in D.C. I am excited to have him lead my team.” 

A graduate of Concordia College in Minnesota, Ward previously worked as a legislative correspondent/staff assistant and a field representative in Rounds’ office.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to continue to serve the citizens of South Dakota in this new capacity,” Ward said. “I’m excited to lead our great team that is service-oriented and focused on getting results. I look forward to the challenges ahead as we continue to work to bring South Dakota values to a broken Washington D.C.” Ward’s promotion became effective October 16.