This legislative commemoration honors Thomas Shortbull for his significant contributions to empowering Native communities in South Dakota through education, advocacy, and leadership. Shortbull served as the President of Oglala Lakota College for two terms, from 1975 to 1979 and again from 1995 to 2017, during which he transformed the institution and positively impacted the lives of numerous students, particularly within Native communities. Under his leadership, the college expanded its campus and achieved national recognition, while also preserving Lakota culture and language and fostering academic excellence.

The commemoration highlights Shortbull's instrumental role in increasing endowments for Oglala Lakota College, which allowed for the expansion of academic offerings and the production of successful graduates in various fields. Additionally, he was a key figure in the formation of the Task Force on Indian-State Government Relations, which advocated for legislation that improved voting rights for Native Americans in certain counties. The resolution acknowledges Shortbull's legacy as a transformative leader whose work continues to inspire hope and opportunity for Native communities in South Dakota and beyond.