30 Questions with Brett Ries
We spoke with Civic Trailblazer Brett Ries on what inspires him on a daily basis, and how USD has influenced his work as an attorney.
USD Foundation & Alumni Association: What sparked your interest in serving your community?
Brett Ries: Wanting to give back to the community that raised me and wanting to contribute to a better future for the community.
U: In one word, what motivates your civic work?
BR: Equality.
U: What community issue matters most to you right now?
BR: LGBTQ+ equality.
U: What's one change you've helped make that you're proud of?
BR: Defeating anti-drag show legislation in the South Dakota State Legislature.
U: Who is your civic role model (local or national)?
BR: Abraham Lincoln.
U: What USD experience most shaped your sense of service?
BR: When I ran for the South Dakota State Legislature while attending USD.
U: Favorite spot on campus when you were a student?
BR: The MUC (Muenster University Center).
U: What is one USD memory that still makes you smile?
BR: Performing in the USD Theatre Department's production of Cabaret.
What's a tradition, value or lesson from USD you live by?
Our school motto: veritas (truth).
U: One USD class or professor who influenced your path:
BR: Dr. Michael Roche.
U: What, in one word, does being a Coyote mean to you?
BR: Excellence.
U: What's one value you bring to every project or initiative?
BR: Compassion.
U: What's the biggest lesson civic leadership has taught you?
BR: People just want to be heard.
U: What's one cause you'll always show up for?
BR: LGBTQ+ rights.
U: What's the hardest part of community work?
BR: Balance.
U: ...and the most rewarding part?
BR: Growth.
U: In one word: your vision for your community's future.
BR: Compassionate.
U: What's one local issue you wish more people talked about?
BR: Drug-crime reform, with a focus on rehabilitation, not incarceration.
Finish this sentence: "I hope my work helps...
...individuals feel welcomed, accepted, supported and understood."
U: Early bird or night owl when it comes to getting things done?
BR: Night owl!
U: Coffer order during a busy day?
BR: Iced mocha.
U: What's your go-to way to unwind after work?
BR: Go to the gym and listen to music.
U: What's one skill every civic leader should have?
BR: The ability to empathize.
U: What's a small action anyone can take to improve their community?
BR: Be kind to everyone.
U: What's your civic superpower?
BR: My empathy and ability to listen to and understand others.
U: One word your friends would use to describe your leadership style:
BR: Levelheaded.
U: Favorite South Dakota season for community events?
BR: Summer.
U: What's one thing you're excited to tackle next?
BR: Finding new ways to be a positive voice for change.
U: What's something about you that might surprise people?
BR: Although I am a lawyer who grew up on a farm in South Dakota, I am also a drag queen!