Dr. Niel Burns completed his undergraduate studies in Neurobiology at the University of Minnesota in the Twin Cities. He then moved back to South Dakota and completed a Master's Degree in Behavioral and Molecular Neurobiology, followed by his Medical Doctorate- both at the University of South Dakota. Dr. Burns states, "Rural South Dakotans face challenges that are unique, complicated, and sometimes incredibly hazardous. We face challenges that people in Sioux Falls and Rapid City frequently have no ability to comprehend. In my opinion, these challenges are what make the people and patients of rural South Dakota some the of most hearty in the USA and make the patients some of the best to serve. I have always had a passion for providing healthcare to rural South Dakotans."