Thomas Fortner (GPD ’17, Conducting) has been named music director of the South Dakota Symphony Youth Orchestra (SDSYO) and assistant conductor for the South Dakota Symphony Orchestra beginning in the 2017-18 season. Fortner will oversee artistic development and lead rehearsals and performances for various groups within the South Dakota Symphony Youth Orchestra and will work with the SDSO in multiple creative capacities, including concerts, education, touring, and community engagement.