Dr. Bryan Johnson and Valley Queen Named True Friends of Education

Dr. Bryan Johnson of Johnson Family Dentistry and Valley Queen and the Valley Queen Charitable Foundation have each been named a True Friend of Education by the Milbank Education Association (MEA).  

Josh Schmeichel and Ally Schubert, who teach and coach at MHS, presented the annual awards on behalf of the MEA at the regular meeting of the Milbank School District Board of Education on Monday, November 9.  Dr. Johnson and Randy Twistol, vice president of human resources at Valley Queen, accepted the honors.

Schubert commended Dr. Johnson for his interactions with students, participation in school events, and financial support. Schubert explained how over the years, Dr. Johnson has taken time to discuss the education involved in dentistry with students. He has also graciously hosted HOSA members for hands-on visits in his office. Johnson Dentistry sponsors two Dakota Build Scholarships for local students who pursue a career in dental hygiene.

Members of the Johnson Dentistry team attend school career days.  Dr. Johnson has presented freshman seminar classes about dental industry careers and owning a business. Outside of his office, Dr. Johnson has served as a youth sports coach and a loyal fan at athletic events. He has provided jerseys, uniforms, and meals for various teams. He has donated to the Milbank Booster Club, and his office team shows their Bulldog Pride with a strong presence in the Homecoming parade. 

In addition, Dr Johnson has offered funds to help members attend the FBLA leadership national conference, and he has given generously to the MHS yearbook, Combined Appeal, Parents Promoting Education, Educators Rising, and the Milbank Snow Queen Festival. 

Schmeichel, also speaking for the MEA, thanked Valley Queen and applauded their many contributions to education. “Valley Queen has demonstrated time and time again that they are willing to invest not only financially, but also with the time, talents, and dedication of their employees.”

The Valley Queen Charitable Foundation continues a long-standing $15,000 scholarship commitment through the Milbank Education Foundation, and they support scholarship opportunities for students who choose to study dairy science at South Dakota State University.

 Valley Queen extends their generosity to Career and Technical Education (CTE), school practice facilities, and student organizations and programs including FFA, HOSA, Educators Rising, FCCLA, FBLA, Junior Achievement, the Bulldog Booster Club, the Milbank Snow Queen Festival, and the fine arts. “These investments enable students to discover their interests, develop their talents, and prepare for their futures,” Schmeichel noted.

Schmeichel also highlighted the encouragement Valley Queen offers to  employees to serve as mentors, coaches, volunteers, and role models for events such as the annual Valley Queen track meet and the Special Olympics Northeast Spring Games. 

Top Photo: Schmeichel, Twistol, Johnson and Schubert