Donavan List was chosen as the United Way & Volunteer Services of Greater Yankton's Volunteer of the Month for August, 2006. He was born and raised near Utica and graduated from Yankton High School. In 1994, List retired from the South Dakota Department of Transportation after nearly 36 years of employment.

While List was in high school he joined the Army National Guard. Through his three years of active duty, he was called up to the Korean War which sent him to Camp Carson, Colorado and Ft. Richardson, Alaska. During the Berlin Crisis, he was sent to Ft. Riley, Kansas. He retired in 1988 with the rank of Command Sergeant Major, having served nearly 42 years, and is still a member of the 196th Regimental Combat Team Organization as well as serving on the Board of Directors.

List has achieved an impressive number of military accomplishments. The NCO Professional Development Ribbon, South Dakota National Guard Distinguished Service Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Sgt. Major's Award, Good Conduct Medal, and the Distinguished Service Award from the Enlisted Association of the National Guard of the United States- to name a few. In 1996, he received the South Dakota National Guard Enlisted Association's "Standing Proud" Rushmore Award for dedication, selfless service and leadership to the development and growth of the Association. In 1998, List received the prestigious Artillery award, the Honorable Saint Barbara Award as well as the Honorable Ancient Order of Saint Barbara Award.

He is a life member of the SDNGEA, and took part in the formation of the EANGUS. He has held such offices as Battalion Representative, Member at Large, Vice-President, and President of the SDNGEA. He is currently the Legislative Chairman. He has also taken part in many committees and conferences for the EANGUS including Budget, Continuity, Scholarship and currently, Legislative.