About Jeff

I'm Jeff Shelton - outdoorsman, archaeologist, neighbor.

I grew up in Kansas, but I'm glad to call South Dakota and the Black Hills my home. During my time at the University of Kansas, I found a passion for archaeology, which has been my career for 13 years. Through this job, I've been fortunate enough to work in over 20 states, and in all corners of South Dakota. I've worked in Buffalo, Elk Point, and countless communities in between to balance development interests and protection of cultural heritage.

Given my professional background, it should come as no surprise that I have a passion for the outdoors. I was raised in a family of avid hunters, and I've always found joy in being outside. Since moving to Rapid City, I've spent my time as an enthusiastic hiker and rock climber, which culminated in joining a 2024 effort to climb Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. When I'm not working for the residents of District 32, I can most likely be found enjoying a hike or a climb in the Black Hills.