EMBE’S PREMIER FUNDRAISING EVENT O C T O B E R 1, 2026 Canopy by Hilton Downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota
PRESENTING SPONSOR
OUR MISSION We uplift the potential in children, women, and families through opportunities that empower all.
OUR VISION
OUR VALUES
A community where children thrive, women excel, and families succeed.
Curiosity, Authenticity, Leadership & Connection
EmBe’s beginnings are rooted in meetings in 1921 that formed the YWCA in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The vision to serve women and families has remained strong, empowering people to create lives of meaning and purpose, creating a community that serves everyone well.
SHA R E YOUR P HOT OS - #T HE EM B ES EmBe
@embesf
M A K E A D O N AT I O N I N T H E I R H O N O R. At EmBe, women are celebrated. Our programs spark connection, confidence, and empowerment. When you support The EMBES this year, you’re directly supporting families who choose to participate in the workforce, providing children with the opportunity to grow and learn in a safe and nurturing environment, enhancing women’s leadership skills, and supporting youth to gain the confidence and abilities to succeed. Your generosity not only supports programs—it creates opportunities, strengthens families, builds future leaders, and helps ensure every child has the confidence to believe in what is possible.
Ways to give: - Scan the QR code - Visit embe.org/giving - Venmo @EmBe-SF - Fill out the donation card included in this program
THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT! Connection issues? WIFI: Hilton Honors PASSWORD: Canopy2026
MEET THE EMCEES DR. CHARISSE OL AND & IVY OL AND DANDAR
DR. CHARISSE OLAND
With more than four decades of experience as a healthcare executive, educator, board member and community leader, Dr. Charisse Oland has dedicated her career to developing people, strengthening organizations and creating opportunities for others to thrive. A lifelong learner and passionate mentor, Charisse is a Fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives and has received numerous professional and community service honors. She continues to lend her time and leadership to causes and organizations that make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. A longtime Sioux Falls community leader, Charisse enjoys downtown living with her husband, Eivind, being near their two grandsons, gardening, entertaining friends at their family lake home, and traveling with their three children.
IVY OLAND DANDAR
Ivy Oland Dandar is an art and design consultant, entrepreneur and community leader with a passion for creating inspiring environments, meaningful experiences and new opportunities. As founder of Oland Arts Consulting, she brings nearly two decades of experience working with healthcare, education and commercial clients, blending art, design, research and innovation to enhance spaces and experiences. A Sioux Falls native, Ivy has directed more than $10 million in investments into the regional arts economy, helping elevate the role of local artists and strengthen the creative community. Her leadership extends to numerous community boards and initiatives, where she advocates for cultural growth, innovation and the continued advancement of Sioux Falls. Inspired by the women who have paved the way before her, Ivy is passionate about mentorship and empowering others to pursue bold ideas and possibilities. Together, Charisse and Ivy reflect the spirit of The EMBES—women lifting women, generations inspiring generations, and community leaders using their talents and influence to create a stronger future for women, children and families.
WELCOME
Kerri Tietgen, Chief Executive Officer, EmBe Ravan Ackerman, Chief Development Officer, EmBe
OPENING REMARKS
Julie Lautt, Chief Financial Officer, Avera Health
2026 AWA R DS P E R F O RM ING, VIS UAL, & CREAT I VE ARTS BUS INES S ACHIEV EMEN T HEALTHCARE & ST EM
Sponsored by Sanford Health
BANKING & FINANCE
Sponsored by First Bank & Trust
M IS S ION M OM ENT
Kerri Tietgen, Chief Executive Officer, EmBe
SY LVI A HENKIN MENTORING AWAR D OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR CO MM UNIT Y & PUBLIC S ERVI C E Sponsored by American Bank & Trust
YO U NG WOM AN OF ACHIEVEMENT Sponsored by Avera Health
EM BELIEV ER AWARD
CLOSING REMARKS
Ravan Ackerman, Chief Development Officer, EmBe 2026 nominees are invited to the stage for a photo immediately following the program.
2026 N O M I N E E S INTRODUCING THE 53RD COLLECTIVE OF THE EMBES - A TRIBUTE TO WOMEN
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
RILEY BLOCK, Sioux Falls Figure Skating Club, Augustana University At the height of COVID, Riley was hired as the Director of the Sioux Falls Figure Skating Club. Since starting in 2021 she has lead the development of new programs; Theater On Ice, Hockey Cheer, Adult Sectional Events and continued to grow the leadership staff, as well as the Learn to Skate and Hockey Academy programs impacting over 400 youth skaters and athletes each year. She has played an ample role in the partnership and collaboration of the Sioux Falls Flyers and Sioux Falls FSC and continues to share her love and passion for coaching and skating with new coaches including those that skate on the Augustana Figure Skating team that she serves as the head coach for. PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
JILL BLOM, Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce
Jill Blom is Director of Marketing & Communications for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. For 17 years, often behind the scenes, she has told the Chamber’s story across print, web and digital media, moving from hands-on design to leading marketing and communications alongside a talented creative team. Jill designed the first *Chamber News* magazine in 2014 and has shaped every issue since through design, writing and editorial direction. Her creative work includes the Chamber Annual Meeting and marketing for the Young Professionals Network and Forward Sioux Falls. She recently served as judge for national chamber communications awards and, in 2020, worked with city and community leaders to select Sioux Falls’ community brand. PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
MAREN ENGEL, City of Sioux Falls As the first Arts Coordinator for the City of Sioux Falls, Maren Engel works at the intersection of arts, community, and civic life, leading initiatives that support artists, expand access to creative experiences, and integrate the arts into public spaces and community development. A professional performing artist and voice educator, Maren brings her own artistic practice to her leadership of Sioux Falls’ growing arts ecosystem. She played a central role in developing the city’s first Arts & Cultural Plan, a 10-year roadmap for its creative future, and leads a diverse portfolio of public art and cultural initiatives. Her work is helping build a more vibrant, connected, and accessible arts community.
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
LIZ HEEREN, University of South Dakota Liz Heeren earned a BA in Biology and Studio Art from Saint Olaf College in 1997, an MA in Art Theory/Art Education at the University of Arizona in 2000, and an MFA in painting at the University of South Dakota in 2007. Heeren is the recipient of the University of Arizona’s Creative Achievement Award, a Rotary Ambassadorial Scholar (New Zealand, 2000 - 2001), recipient of the University Center’s Excellence in Teaching Award, and co-recipient of the Sioux Empire Arts Council’s Innovation in the Arts Award. Heeren is currently a full-time professor for the University of South Dakota’s Department of Art and Director of Ipso Gallery at Fresh Produce, downtown Sioux Falls, South Dakota.
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
ANNA HUDELSON, Mosaic Arts & Events Anna Hudelson has served as Mosaic’s Education Director for 14 years, creating affordable, engaging art experiences that combine creativity, education, a variety of mediums, and hands-on techniques. Through her dedication and leadership, Mosaic has been able to offer art classes to the community year-round, now serving more than 3,500 students of all ages and abilities. Anna strives to make art accessible and meaningful to everyone, creating a welcoming environment where each participant feels encouraged to explore their creativity. Anna enjoys teaching for all ages through adult day services, retirement homes, homeschool families, summer art classes, afterschool students, preschool families, adult art classes, and year-round field trips.
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
ALEXANDRA LUNSTRA, A.L. Art & Prints Alex is a community builder who turns art into a gentle kind of magic—inviting anyone, anywhere, to create, relax, and belong. Her murals lift the city’s walls, her classes open hearts, and her exhibitions turn creativity into collective courage. As Vice President of The Watering Can and founder of Audacious HeARTS, she cultivates artists across the region, guiding them to share their gifts. Through whimsical, healing expression, she helps Sioux Falls grow brighter—one brushstroke of community at a time.
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
ALLISON MICKELSON, Eugene Field A+ Elementary School Hailing from Pierre, Allison’s training and work in theater and music spans the Midwest, NYC, and Glasgow, UK, where she earned an MFA in Classical and Contemporary Text at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland, a program dedicated to democratic theatre making. With a BA in Music Education, she conducts choirs and works with Levitt Jam Camps and Fellowship Jazz Center’s Jazz for Young People series, all in service of bold expression. Theater credits: Fun Home (Best Actress Award), Elf (Tour), and Lisa Kron’s 2.5 Minute Ride. Beyond performing with Tituss Burgess at The Kennedy Center or her solo show, she is a yoga instructor and activist who uplifts women’s voices and stories and fosters community through live, shared artistic experiences.
PERFORMING, VISUAL, & CREATIVE ARTS
RAENA RASMUSSEN, Balleraena Dance Studio Raena received her degree in dance with emphases in choreography, teaching, and performance. She has studied under many renowned choreographers and has lived in Bali, New York, Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, and other cities. Raena opened Balleraena Dance Studio in 2001. She is married to her eighth-grade soulmate, Aaron, and has three children: Bentley, Paris, and Summit. When Raena is not dancing (which is not very often), you can find her hiking mountains all over the globe or eating ice cream.
PERFORMING & VISUAL ARTS
HANNAH STROMSETH, Results Townsquare Media, Hannah Stromseth Art Hannah Stromseth is a wife, mom, Marketing Strategist, Artist, and Registered Respiratory Therapist. She created Hannah Stromseth Art to create custom murals and fine art that transform everyday spaces and bring people together. She’s on a mission to end boring beige walls. Hannah serves as Treasurer and helps facilitate for The Watering Can, an organization helping local and statewide artists grow their business and bloom in their creative careers. She also serves on the Hartford Farmers Market committee, where she brings free creative activities to local families. Through her art and community involvement, Hannah is passionate about making creativity more accessible, visible, and meaningful. The world needs more art!
BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
SARAH CARNES, 9 Clouds Sarah grew up on a cattle and crop farm between Cherokee and Quimby, Iowa. She graduated from Luther College with degrees in communications and business management. Her first job out of college was at Weber Shandwick in Minneapolis on the Farm and Food Advocacy team. After a trip to Sioux Falls to drop her grandparents off at the airport, Sarah reconnected with her Luther classmate, John Meyer, who recruited her to join 9 Clouds. Taking a friend’s dad’s advice, she said she would join if she got equity, and the rest is history. Sarah has been at 9 Clouds since 2012 and is an owner and CEO. 9 Clouds has grown from three employees to 17, with clients from all over the country, by leveraging marketing technology to drive revenue for clients. BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
KRYSTAL LOHFF, Integrated Care and Consultation, CALM WATERS Krystal Lohff is a licensed clinical social worker. She spent five years as a clinical social worker at the Veterans Health Administration, assisting former service members with PTSD and reintegration. She founded and serves as CEO of Calm Waters, a Sioux Falls nonprofit established in 2020 to aid returning soldiers. She launched Saturday morning support groups to help veterans manage combat trauma and readjust to civilian life. She has spearheaded fundraising campaigns aiming to build a multi-milliondollar Veteran Village and Retreat Center on a 10-acre property, and she successfully managed a million-dollar federal grant. BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
MEGAN RAPOSA, Sioux Falls Simplified Megan Raposa is an award-winning journalist and lifelong South Dakotan. She founded Sioux Falls Simplified in 2021 with the goal of bringing smarter, easier local news to the city, and today reaches more than 6,000 email subscribers. SF Simplified has been recognized by the Google News Initiative, LION Publishers, Project C and the Reynolds Journalism Institute as an industry example of building trust, informing the community and pioneering the next generation of local news. SF Simplified has also raised nearly $10,000 for local nonprofits, and this year launched a new high school sports vertical, produced local election coverage that helped tens of thousands vote in the city mayoral election and grew by more than 1,000 subscribers.
BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
STEPHANIE THI, In Flower Stephanie grew up in a small South Dakota town, the daughter of an immigrant who came to the U.S. as a refugee. Much of her childhood was spent working in her mom’s restaurant, where she learned firsthand the grit, creativity and care it takes to build a business and community. That entrepreneurial spirit followed her through art school and eventually to flowers. In 2019, she started In Flower in a spare bedroom with dried flowers. After going viral during the pandemic and shipping hundreds of bouquets nationwide each week, In Flower grew into a colorful Sioux Falls retail space offering fresh flowers, gifts, weddings and events. Today, Stephanie and her team travel nationwide flowering celebrations while building community through flowers. BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
CARRIE THOMPSON, AMC Collective Carrie is the owner of AMC Collective, a Sioux Falls creative marketplace bringing local makers and the community together through handmade goods and creative experiences. Over the past 10 years, she has grown and evolved her business to provide opportunities for artists, makers, and crafters to sell their work while creating an approachable space where people of all ages can explore their own creativity. Through workshops, drop-in crafting, community events, and a pre-loved creative supply room, Carrie is committed to making creativity accessible, supporting small businesses, and creating a welcoming place for connection, learning, and memory-making. BUSINESS ACHIEVEMENT
EMMERSEN UITTS, The Playground - Indoor Softball Facility Emmersen Uitts attended USF with a dream of opening a softball facility. She played softball while earning a degree in Entrepreneurial Studies. While working towards her degree, she turned that dream into a plan, using class projects to prepare her own business. In 2021, Emmie opened The Playground-Indoor Softball Facility. What began as a 1,500-sf garage quickly outgrew its space, leading to a 12,000-sf facility that serves over 200 athletes across the region. In 2022, Emmie founded the SD Players Fastpitch Softball Organization, a nonprofit committed to providing families with a high-level softball experience at an affordable cost through fundraising opportunities. The organization has grown from two teams to 16 teams in five years.
H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
KRIS DENEVAN, Sanford Health Kris has spent 22 years motivating and supporting teams at the Sanford USD Medical Center. Since 2018, she has served as VP, Facilities & Support Services, providing leadership for teams including Construction, Safety, Nutrition & Food Services, Security, and EVS to name a few. During her tenure, Kris has helped lead the successful addition of more than 1.5 million square feet of new construction, supporting Sanford’s growth in the region. Her passion for creating patient-centered spaces is matched by her commitment to building a culture where employees feel valued and empowered to make a difference.
H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
TAYL AR HASH, Avera Health Taylar’s career began in sexual assault care, where she worked with survivors during some of the most vulnerable moments of their lives. That work taught her the importance of listening without judgment, believing people when they share their stories, and giving patients back a sense of safety and control in their care. Those lessons continue to shape her today as a Certified Nurse Midwife and current Yale doctoral student in Healthcare Ethics and Leadership. Her work now spans women’s health, sexual health, and wellness, with a focus on compassionate, trauma informed care and creating meaningful change in healthcare.
H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
JAYME NELSON, Sanford Health Hospice Jayme has dedicated her career to accompanying children and families through serious illness, death, and grief. After serving as a chaplain at Sanford Children’s Hospital, she now leads hospice bereavement care, where she has expanded support groups, rural outreach, and resources for grieving children and families. She has also strengthened community partnerships, bereavement volunteer outreach, and innovative approaches to grief support. Her work has also advanced standardized, coordinated bereavement care across the health system. Through compassionate leadership, Jayme is building a community where people facing loss are seen, remembered, and connected.
H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
RACHEL RODEL, MD, Sanford Health Rachel Rodel, MD, is dedicated to advancing healthcare and inspiring future STEM leaders. A double boardcertified maternal-fetal medicine (MFM) subspecialist caring for complex pregnancies, she serves as Medical Director of Ultrasound, teaches as an Assistant Professor at the USD Sanford School of Medicine and is an OBGYN board examiner. She founded and leads a national Rural MFM Interest Group, expanding collaboration and access to specialty care in underserved communities, and presents and publishes on maternal and rural health. She mentors aspiring physicians, volunteers with the Spanish immersion program and coaches girls basketball. She is proudest of raising her former EmBe kids and empowering them and others to pursue their dreams. H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
DEL AYNE SEVERSON, Sanford Health Delayne Severson, MSN, RN-BC, CPPS, is a Senior Improvement Advisor at Sanford Health with more than 34 years of ambulatory care experience. She has advanced from frontline nursing to leadership and quality improvement roles focused on improving patient outcomes, patient safety, and healthcare quality. Delayne partners with healthcare teams across a multistate region to advance evidence-based care and population health. She leads enterprise-wide improvement initiatives and is known for translating complex quality concepts into practical strategies. She holds a Master of Science in Nursing Leadership and Administration and is passionate about fostering continuous improvement and safer care for patients and families. H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
DR. L AUREN WOOD THUM, Urology Specialists Dr. Lauren Wood Thum is a double board-certified urologist, fellowship-trained in Female Pelvic Medicine & Reconstructive Surgery, and a Menopause Society Certified Practitioner. She serves as an assistant professor at the Medical School, the urology clerkship director, and the founding faculty supervisor of a women’s health interest group. She has authored numerous papers, remains active in research, and is hosting an upcoming conference on pelvic floor disorders and menopausal care. Inspired by a surgical mission in Africa, she serves on a nonprofit board that funds fistula surgery for women in Uganda. She enjoys educating and advocating on social media, operating and caring for patients daily, and being a wife and mother to 3 young sons.
H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
MOLLY UHING, MD, Avera Medical Group Dr. Uhing is Medical Director of Women’s Health at Avera McKennan. Her OB/GYN career has been blessed by thousands of babies delivered and a lot of complex gynecologic surgery. She strives for clinical excellence and strong interpersonal relationships. Philanthropically, she is serving as Co-Chair of Avera’s largest fundraising campaign to benefit the new Women’s and Children’s Tower. Molly is a proud USD Coyote, from undergrad through medical school to teaching as clinical faculty. She is passionate about rural obstetrics training for the next generation of MDs, through the CFM OB Fellowship. She has been married to Brad for 20+ years and they share 4 children. Her hobbies include watching her kids’ sports, playing tennis, and lake life. H E A LT H CA R E & ST E M
ALLISON WATSON, Sanford Cancer Center Allison was born and raised in the Black Hills, and attended college at Augustana. During college, she fell in love with research and took a part-time position with Sanford Research under a fantastic principal investigator (Kristi Egland, PhD) studying breast cancer. From there, she pursued a dual doctoral degree program at USD, where she completed my PhD in the same breast cancer research lab that sparked her interest during college. After graduating with an MD and PhD, she continued Internal Medicine Residency followed by a Hematology/ Oncology Fellowship at the University of MN. She has 2 kids and is happy to be back home at Sanford Cancer Center, eager to grow with Edith Sanford Breast Center, expanding opportunities for breast cancer patients. BANKING & FINANCE
JESS EVANS, South Dakota Development Corporation Jess Evans is the Chief Operating Officer of South Dakota Development Corporation, bringing nearly 20 years of experience in banking, finance and economic development. She specializes in large, complex SBA 504 projects, partnering with banks and business owners to navigate challenges and demanding real estate deadlines. A full-time working mother of nine, Jess balances two handfuls of kids and jam-packed school and sports schedules. She and her family have fostered since 2020, recently adopting a sibling set of four after 3½ years with their family. Jess is driven to make a meaningful contribution and build a stronger state for the next generation—because her work is ultimately about the South Dakota her children will inherit.
BANKING & FINANCE
MAGGIE S. FITZGIBBONS, Fitzgibbons Seliski Wealth Management Group A believer that everyone deserves someone in their corner, this nominee is dedicated to helping people grow, thrive, and reach goals they once thought were out of reach. As a financial advisor and leader, the nominee helps families build stronger futures while mentoring colleagues and developing emerging leaders. Outside of work, the nominee serves through Kiwanis, teaches financial fundamentals to engaged couples, supports widows through church ministries, and has led large-scale fundraising efforts, including a campaign that raised more than $162,000 for Make-a-Wish. Whether through leadership, service, or education, the mission is simple: leave people better than they were found.
BANKING & FINANCE
HIDDY HEINZ, American Bank & Trust Hiddy Heinz’s professional journey spans education, banking, and human resources. After spending 15 years in public education as a teacher and principal, she joined the banking industry in 2017, beginning her career in retail banking. In 2019, she transitioned into Human Resources, where she found her passion for supporting employees and helping organizations thrive. Throughout her career, Hiddy has been driven by a commitment to service, leadership, and creating opportunities for others to succeed. She believes that investing in people is the foundation of strong organizations and thriving communities.
BANKING & FINANCE
RICHELLE HOFER, Impact Wealth Management Richelle Hofer, CRPC®, AAMS®, AWMA®, is founder and President of Impact Wealth Management. She launched Impact to challenge a longstanding financial industry convention: that the price of financial advice should be tied to the amount of money a client has to invest. Instead, she built an independent, flat-fee firm where clients pay for the complexity and value of the planning they receive—not the size of their portfolio. Today, Impact serves families across the country with comprehensive financial planning and a deeply personal approach. Richelle continues to challenge industry norms while building a firm centered on transparency, meaningful advice, and lasting client relationships.
BANKING & FINANCE
KRISTI METZGER, First Interstate Bank Kristi Metzger is an SVP and Regional Wealth Manager with more than 26 years of experience in wealth management, overseeing more than $9 billion in assets under management. She serves on numerous boards, including the University of Sioux Falls, Girl Scouts of the Dakotas, Volunteers of America Foundation, Seed for Success, Hills-Beaver Creek Foundation, and the Sioux Falls Premier Center/Convention Center/Arena Board. A graduate of Leadership South Dakota and Leadership Sioux Falls, Kristi is passionate about giving back. Most recently, she led efforts to raise more than $500,000 to build the first practice track for the Hills-Beaver Creek School and community while championing mental health initiatives and meaningful community impact.
BANKING & FINANCE
BROOKE PENN, Experience Sioux Falls Brooke Penn joined the Experience Sioux Falls team in May 2024. Since then, she has streamlined key financial workflows, including Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, while establishing procedures for Account Reconciliations. She has enhanced transparency in financial reporting for the organization’s boards, and implemented several policies for Accounting, HR, and IT. Outside of work, Brooke enjoys giving back to her community and empowering our local youth. She is involved in her church by serving on their Faith and Family Committee and assisting with their elementary youth group. In the spring, she enjoys being an Assistant Softball Coach at Roosevelt High School. She lives in Sioux Falls with her husband, Nate, and two daughters. S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
ERICA DEBOER, Sanford Health Erica DeBoer, serves as chief nursing officer for Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the country. In this role, DeBoer provides strategic clinical leadership across quality, safety, research, care management and the integration of enterprise-wide clinical initiatives, with a focus on advancing new care delivery models. DeBoer oversees Sanford Health’s nursing practice supporting patient and resident care across post-acute, ambulatory, and inpatient settings. She views nurses as essential leaders in care transformation and as a unifying force across the health system, driving safe, high-quality care and exceptional patient experiences.
S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
NATALIE EISENBERG, Click Rain, Inc. Natalie Eisenberg is CEO of Click Rain Inc., the parent company of marketing agencies Click Rain and Lemonly, where she leads with a commitment to being difference -makers. Under her guidance, the organization prioritizes positive impact on its team members, clients, and the broader community. In 2022, Natalie co-founded Power Lunch, a mentorship program that introduces middle-school girls to professional women; in 2023 she launched LearnAboutGrief.com, an initiative to normalize the grief experience, following the death of her mother. Natalie serves on the Boards of First Dakota National Bank and Great Bear Recreation Park, and enjoys outdoor adventures with her family and friends.
S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
LYNN GILLETTE, Lynn Gillette Empowered Living Lynn Gillette’s life’s work is centered on helping people recognize what’s possible within themselves. An educator and school principal for nearly 30 years, she is now a speaker and empowerment coach who mentors across generations. She serves as a one-on-one mentor through the Women’s Leadership Program, volunteers to provide personal development for women in her community, and is in her third year mentoring a middle school student. Closer to home, she serves as a mentor and model for her four young nieces as they rebuild their lives after profound loss. Lynn believes meaningful mentorship begins with seeing what is possible in someone, and championing them as they learn to see it, believe it, and live it for themselves.
S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
FAITH MINNICH KJESBO, Avera Health Faith Minnich Kjesbo joined Avera in 2019 where she currently serves as System Director of Ministry Formation, leading and promoting a culture of learning, development and belonging that is founded in and reflective of Avera’s identity, mission, and values. In July 2023, Faith founded Mountain Light LLC, offering consulting and coaching services to people and organizations as they navigate change, develop cultural intelligence, cultivate belonging, pursue greater dignity, equity, and justice, and practice wholehearted, embodied living.
S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
AMY POKEL A, AMPO Nonprofit Solutions Amy Pokela, CFRE, is founder and principal consultant of AMPO Nonprofit Solutions, where she helps nonprofits turn ambitious missions into clear strategies, stronger fundraising systems, and lasting community impact. Her career includes serving as an executive director and teaching fundraising and nonprofit leadership at USD. A trusted advisor, educator, and speaker, Amy equips leaders and boards with practical systems that strengthen organizations and the communities they serve.
S Y LV I A H E N K I N M E N T O R I N G A W A R D
RENEE SCHULZ, Sanford Health Presently, Renee is a Coach/Mentor to Executives, MDs, and APPs for SH Enterprise and on the USD Faculty. In the past, she has served as an iSVH Manager; a Clinical & Staff Development Educator (Sanford Health, (SVH), faculty at SDSU/ USD clinical students, an Organizational/ Performance Consultant; faculty at USD LEND MS Prog, Her certifications include MBTI, EQI, Hogan Assessments, Conflict Resolution, Change, and Facilitation. Renee developed the first “I Can Cope” Series for Cancer Patients (SF), and facilitated a Cardiology Support Group. She provided hundreds of presentations, keynote presentations, facilitations and consultations. During her time she has had the privilege to work with many great young leaders who are presently in charge of a changing world.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
CECA COOPER, University of Sioux Falls Ceca Cooper is a celebrated artist, mentor, and Associate Professor of Art at the University of Sioux Falls, spanning a vibrant 40-year teaching career. Her journey began in Houston, Texas, sharing the joy of creation with everyone from toddlers to seniors, and bringing art into healing spaces like hospitals and nursing homes. In 2004, she joined USF to teach studio drawing, painting, and art appreciation, later winning the 2016 Outstanding Faculty Award. Ceca holds degrees from the University of Houston and the University of South Dakota. Today, she expands student horizons through annual trips to Europe and Japan while maintaining a thriving personal studio practice featured in national exhibitions.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
STACY NELSON, Sanford Health After 25 years of teaching in the Sioux Falls School District, Stacy now serves as a Career Development Consultant with Sanford Health. In this role, she connects young people with opportunities to explore careers in healthcare. Raised in rural South Dakota, Stacy developed an early appreciation for education and community. Inspired by her parents, who were both teachers, she began her career as a science teacher and track coach at Roosevelt High School. She later joined the CTE Academy, where she taught hands-on medical science courses. Throughout her career, Stacy has been committed to creating meaningful learning opportunities that help students build the confidence, skills, and knowledge needed to achieve their dreams. OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
VALERIE PETERS, Emily’s Hope Change is constant, the path to adulthood is complex, and dedicated teams make a difference. This defines Valerie’s 40-year career in education. After starting at Children’s Care Hospital and School (now Lifescape), she spent 27 years with the Sioux Falls School District as an educator and administrator. Now serving as the Director of Education at Emily’s Hope, Valerie guides the development of the K-12 prevention curriculum, building partnerships to bring prevention education to students to support their ability to develop the skills to make safe, healthy decisions. Teamwork continues at home with her husband, Dennis. They enjoy watching their 3 adult children succeed in life, and their 3 grandchildren begin their educational journey.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
LEEANNA RABINE, Hawthorne Elementary LeeAnna Rabine is in her 22nd year at Hawthorne Elementary, where she taught kindergarten for 10 years and is now in her 12th year of teaching first grade. A 2014 Milken Educator Award recipient and 2008 Walmart Teacher of the Year, she strives to inspire young minds and create an empowering environment where all learners can grow and succeed. After training with Dr. Anita Archer this summer, she became a certified Explicit Instruction trainer. She is also expanding her impact as an adjunct instructor teaching Children’s Literature at Augustana University in the fall and through an online Early Literacy Instruction course she designed for the University of Sioux Falls in the Spring of 2027.
OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
ANN ROSENDALE, Augustana University Ann Rosendale serves as Sr. University Pastor and Vice President for Mission Integration at Augustana University, supporting the integration of faith and learning for students, faculty, and staff. She directs Sacred Discoveries, a Christian storytelling initiative supported by a $5 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc., and has provided leadership for Augustana’s Buntrock Scholars program and the renovation, expansion and rededication of the Chapel of Reconciliation. Her professional engagement extends across faith-based higher education through the LECNA Fellows program, the Network for Vocation in Undergraduate Education, and her leadership as the longest serving chaplain in the Network of ELCA Colleges and Universities. OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
SARAH SIEMONSMA, Avera Health Sarah Siemonsma is the Avera Academy Administrator at Avera Health, where she leads innovative workforce development and healthcare career exploration programs for high school and college students. With more than 20 years of service at Avera, she is passionate about creating pathways that inspire and prepare the next generation of healthcare professionals. Sarah collaborates with educational institutions, community partners, and healthcare leaders to provide mentorship, experiential learning opportunities, and career-focused programming. Her dedication to student success, community engagement, & healthcare education has helped empower countless young people to pursue meaningful careers while strengthening the future healthcare workforce. OUTSTANDING EDUCATOR
STACY WARWICK, Cleveland Elementary Stacy is a kindergarten teacher in the Sioux Falls School District who is committed to creating a classroom environment where curiosity, confidence and kindness grow every day. She blends research-based teaching strategies with a nurturing approach, ensuring each student feels supported as they build academic and social- emotional skills. She holds a bachelor’s degree from South Dakota State University and a master’s Degree in Administration from Concordia, St. Paul. She collaborates with colleagues and student teachers, sharing ideas, resources and helping build a supportive community. She continues to serve on various leadership and academic teams at both the building and district levels.
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
SANDY BERVEN, tre Ministries Sandy Berven is founder and president of tre Ministries, a Sioux Falls organization empowering young adults to live out their God given purpose. With more than 25 years in faith development, hospitality and leadership, Sandy connects young adults to service, leadership and community. Under her leadership, tre has launched Love Your City Missions and Project 18:19, a mixed-use campus bringing together housing, leadership development and community engagement. The vision is to strengthen Sioux Falls by creating environments where the next generation builds healthy relationships, discovers purpose, serves others and becomes future leaders in their families, businesses and city.
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
NICOLE HOFER, Sleep In Heavenly Peace Nicole Hofer serves as the president of the Sioux Falls chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace (SHP), a national non-profit organization that fundraises, builds, & delivers beds to local children in need. Nicole felt called to reopen the Sioux Falls chapter during the summer of 2024 after learning the local chapter had closed. Under her leadership, SHP and scores of volunteers have built and delivered over 1220 beds for children in our community. As a 100% volunteer run and donation funded chapter, Nicole leads with a servant heart and love for others. Her passion and work, along with the support of hundreds of donors and volunteers, has helped to further the mission of SHP: “No Kid Sleeps on the Floor in Our Town!”
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
DAWN MARIE JOHNSON, Midwest Street Medicine Dawn Marie Johnson, MSW, is an independent consultant bridging reentry, tribal communities, public education, and street-level healthcare. She is the first Native American woman elected to the Sioux Falls School Board and a Southeast Technical College board member. A Governor’s Correctional Rehabilitation Task Force appointee, she founded the Unified Program Leadership Council, the only resident-led governance body in South Dakota corrections, leads reentry programming at St. Francis House, and coordinates Midwest Street Medicine’s sober incentive program. She authored a growing bilingual reentry guide, ran 437 miles across South Dakota for the 988 Helpline, and was Rotary International’s first Indigenous Exchange delegate.
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
WENDY MCDONNEL, Active Generations Wendy is honored to serve our community with over 25+ years in Development in the nonprofit sector, including team leadership with the Sioux Empire Red Cross, Kilian Community College, DSU Foundation, youth sports, and currently Active Generations. She has always strived to model service for her two kids by donating time and treasure in SF. Her past volunteer roles include 10 years with the Sioux Falls Area Chamber Diplomats, including Chair; the City of Sioux Falls Ice and Rec Committee, Girls on the Run Coach, Leadership Sioux Falls Graduate, Scheels Iceplex campaign volunteer, SF Airshow 2026 Sponsorship Committee, current Vice Chair of the SF Area Humane Society and serves as needed under Mayor Erickson’s Community Quality of Life Committee. COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
RYLIE MCMULLEN, Pathways Shelter for the Homeless Rylie McMullen, BSW, is a practicing Social Worker in Yankton SD. Before becoming a social worker, she had the opportunity to sit upon the Youth & Shelter Services Board while in High School in Iowa. Rylie has had the honor to provide case management to one of the most vulnerable populations in our country. She has worked tirelessly with Pathways Shelter for the Homeless to break the cycle of homelessness. Rylie has specifically helped build a program for unhoused young adults between the ages of 18-24. Rylie is also a Youth Mental Health First Aide Certified Trainer, with this, she is able to spread mental health awareness. Rylie received her degree in Social Work from The University of South Dakota and plans to continue her education. COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
CHRISTINA OEY, South Dakota Humanities Council Christina Oey is Executive Director of the South Dakota Humanities Council, where she leads statewide efforts to advance literacy, literature, history, and lifelong learning. Her work supports programs including the South Dakota Festival of Books and Young Readers Initiative, which reaches more than 15,000 third graders each year with free books and opportunities to engage with authors. A nonprofit leader with nearly two decades of experience, Christina has helped raise more than $21 million for nonprofits and has served as Board Chair for the South Dakota Nonprofit Network and Toy Lending Library. She is an active community volunteer and proud mom of two daughters.
COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
BETSY SCHUSTER, Active Generations Betsy’s commitment to the nonprofit sector began as a college intern at Sioux Empire United Way and continued at the Helpline Center, where her work with expanding 211 and 988 access deepened her commitment to connection and access to support. Today, as President & CEO of Active Generations, Betsy believes growing older is a privilege and everyone deserves connection, purpose, and opportunity at every age. She is passionate about building systems that foster community and investing in technology not to replace human connection, but to create more of it. Under her leadership, Active Generations is evolving to expand access, reduce isolation, and help adults of all ages live connected, engaged lives. COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
SHANNON WARD, Good NAtured Shannon Ward’s path has rarely been linear, and she considers that one of her greatest strengths. A community builder, advocate and lifelong learner, her varied career has taken her from hospitality and management to postpartum care, entrepreneurship and community advocacy. Her proximity to homelessness in Sioux Falls compelled her to speak up about systemic challenges others had grown reluctant to address. Shannon brings people together, asks difficult questions and helps people feel seen, heard and empowered to find their own voices. She believes meaningful change happens through connection, and that leadership is less about changing people than creating space for them to grow into who they already are. COMMUNITY & PUBLIC SERVICE
JESSICA WELLS, Lifescape Foundation As President of the LifeScape Foundation for the past 15 years Jessica helps others make a difference across South Dakota through their generosity. She matches the LifeScape mission of empowering people to live their best life with donors who want to leave a legacy and impact in the lives of individuals with disabilities and complex medical needs. She has been at LifeScape for 23 years and is active in the community mentoring others in the non-profit sector and served as past treasurer of the Mary Jo Wegner Arboretum Society and the Junior League Society, and on the Association of Fundraising Professionals board of directors. She is a graduate of Leadership Sioux Falls and Leadership South Dakota.
YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
HANNA BARTELS, Midco Hanna Bartels is the Sr. Community Relations Coordinator at Midco, where she has served for more than three years. Driven by a passion for building connections, Hanna supports and strengthens the communities and organizations Midco serves across its five-state footprint. She is often part of Midco’s first introduction to new communities, creating positive first impressions and relationships that set the tone for lasting partnerships. As part of the Community Relations team, she has helped coordinate approximately 250 community and employee engagement events, including teacher appreciation events, community experiences and employee celebrations. Through these efforts, Hanna creates a meaningful impact throughout the communities Midco serves. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
JADE DEL ANEY, Lemonly Jade leads national growth as Director of Business Development, helping drive a record-setting 2025 and welcome 40+ clients. She builds relationships, mentors her team, and shares the Lemonly story. A summa cum laude SDSU grad with 10+ years in relationships, storytelling, and fundraising, Jade loves turning big ideas into meaningful impact. As a healthcare nonprofit major gift officer, she grew employee-giving revenue 140% and added 624 donors in two years. She’s a Bush Foundation Changemaker, OTA Builder, keynote speaker, allergy advocate, and deeply involved with United Way, CMN, and the SF School District. Mom of three and former Deal or No Deal contestant, Jade brings strategy, heart, belly laughs, and woo to everything she does. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
HAILEY DUNCAN, Calvary Elite Gymnastics & Tumbling Hailey founded Calvary Elite in June 2024 at 26 years old. Growing up in a single-parent home and being a single mom herself shaped her passion for making excellent gymnastics accessible to all. In two years, Calvary Elite grew from 6 to 26 employees, expanded the competitive team from 23 to 75 athletes, and serves 250+ families weekly. In its first season, it earned the 2025 South Dakota USA Gymnastics Team of the Year award. Since it began, all of their teams placed top 3 at State, and athletes reached nationals both years. By mentoring young women, creating jobs, and leading through faith, Hailey strives to make Calvary a light in our community and fulfill its mission: “Empowering Champions in Gymnastics and in Life.” She knows it is possible only by God’s grace.
YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
ELSA RAE FOKKEN, Songbird Kombucha Elsa Rae has lived in Sioux Falls for nearly her entire life and is an active member of the music community. Her most recent performance featured a collaboration between twelve other Sioux Falls artists and was put on at the historical Orpheum Theater. She is the co-owner of Songbird Kombucha with her husband Jacob. Together, the couple has grown their operation from a humble Farmers’ Market business to an entity that serves over 50 other locations. To create their distinguishable can line, Elsa taught herself the ins and outs of graphic design. In her spare time, Elsa is becoming a certified hormone health specialist and is creating a classical homeschool curriculum for her three young children. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
MICHELLE HARWOOD, Sanford Health Born in South Korea, Michelle moved to Sioux Falls in 2014 and built a career rooted in service, safety, advocacy, and compassionate leadership. After 7 years as a 911 dispatcher and experience with the 211 Helpline Center, she joined Sanford Health in 2022 and advanced to Manager of Communications and Guest Services in 2024. She leads Switchboard operations and 4 campus entrances, championing patient safety and exceptional service. Michelle’s leadership is defined by personal connection from advocating for individuals in crisis, strengthening suicide prevention, mental health, and emergency response efforts, and creating meaningful moments or being there to support patients and their families on their most difficult days. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
ALEXIS MAHLEN, Lloyd Companies Taking big ideas and making them happen motivates Alexis Mahlen. As a licensed Broker, she drives positive change by negotiating deals for clients ranging from Main Street businesses to Wall Street corporations. Alexis’ strong commitment to community involvement has led her to actively participate in several professional and philanthropic organizations. She’s also co-founder and co-host of a podcast showcasing the remarkable journeys of local business founders. A proud mom of three sons, Alexis brings that same drive home, where her greatest passion lives — her family. Whether negotiating deals, mentoring others, spotlighting business founders, or cheering on her boys, Alexis is deeply committed to shaping a thriving community landscape.
YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
CHELSEA MUNSON, Vitality Salon Cooperative Chelsea Munson founded Vitality Salon Cooperative in April 2025, inspired by mentors who helped her build confidence, sharpen her skills, and recognize her potential. Vitality is an education-driven community where beauty professionals access advanced training, mentorship, and collaborative resources to build sustainable careers. Through Vitality, Chelsea empowers beauty professionals—particularly young women—to grow their skills, pursue leadership opportunities, and support one another. Her work is strengthening Sioux Falls’ beauty industry and workforce while creating meaningful opportunities for the next generation of salon professionals. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
JACI PIETERS, Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce Jaci Pieters serves as Manager of the Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network, leading a network of 900+ young professionals and 30+ volunteers. Since joining YPN, she has grown membership by more than 150 and leads 70+ events annually. At the heart of Jaci’s work is creating a sense of belonging in Sioux Falls. As a connector and community builder, she helps young professionals find their people, build meaningful relationships and develop deeper ties to the city they call home. Her impact extends through service with Employment Disability Resources, Junior Achievement and other community organizations, while she continues her professional development through IOM. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
RIKA PETERSON, Maximizing Excellence, LLC Rika Peterson has built her career at MaxEx, joining the firm in 2013 and growing alongside it for more than a decade into her current role as Senior Consultant. From her very first strategic plan, she has described the work as therapy for organizations: diagnosing problems and opportunities, then building toward more sustainable operations and greater impact for the people and communities they serve. Over her years with MaxEx, Rika has honed her expertise in research, strategic planning, group facilitation, feasibility studies, and resource development for dozens of organizations. She currently serves as Vice President on the Sioux Falls Food Co-op Board, where she blends her passions for good, local food and community service.
YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
MYAH SELL AND, Jefferson High School At SDSU, Myah earned 2 degrees, 4 minors, & national awards as a student-athlete. While there, she co-founded a nonprofit to empower young girls through sport. It has served nearly 400 girls, including 100+ scholarships to attend sport camps. After SDSU, Myah played basketball professionally, where she did international community outreach. Then, she helped develop the College & Career Access initiative within the SFSD. Currently, she is an advisor and empower first-generation and low-income students in post-graduation plans. Myah is passionate about expanding opportunities! She also works part-time for the Brookings Foundation, priming them for future growth. She will earn a Master’s in Nonprofit Leadership & Management in December. YOUNG WOMAN OF ACHIEVEMENT
ASHLEY SORENSON, Ashley Lane LLC, FarmSTEAM LLC The founder of Ashley Lane LLC, Ashley helps organizations see their business through the eyes of the people they serve, turning everyday interactions into experiences that build trust, loyalty, and lasting connection. Her work spans customer experience strategy, business growth, community initiatives, and event development. An advocate for agriculture and community, Ashley is also co-founder of FarmSTEAM Academy, connecting thousands of students with hands-on agriculture education, safety, career exploration, and community involvement. Ashley brings people, ideas, and opportunities together, creating meaningful in a simple belief: when people feel seen, valued, and connected, we leave people and communities better than we found them. EMBELIEVER AWARD
BLUESTONE FEDERAL CREDIT UNION Bluestone Federal Credit Union began as a not-for-profit financial organization for Sioux Falls employees in 1938. Today, the Credit Union serves over 12,000 members in 43 counties in South Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska. Built on a foundation of service, their staff attends to members’ financial needs, and the communities they live in. They developed the Cooperative Culture, an annual program where 15 area non-profits share their missions during Stampede Hockey games. Last year, the staff of 45 volunteered 466 hours with non-profits. The team also focuses on financial education to all, even partnering with the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society in 2025 to deliver social media videos of adoptable animals “sharing” financial tips.
EMBELIEVER AWARD
CHRISTINE DILL ARD, AI Architects, Microsoft, Author of “The Truth She Showed Me” Christine Dillard is an author, advocate, and Director of AI Architects at Microsoft, living in Sioux Falls with her two children. Her book, The Truth She Showed Me, gives language to what coercive control does to a woman’s sense of self, and what it takes to come back to self. Survivors around the world keep writing the same thing: “I thought you were writing about me.” Built into its launch is a giving mission: for every 20 copies sold, one is donated to a domestic violence or advocacy organization. Through her writing and her community, Christine helps women name what they’ve lived, trust their own voices, and rebuild, carrying one conviction through it all: strength doesn’t require hardness, and every woman deserves to be believed. EMBELIEVER AWARD
FIRST UNITED METHODIST CHURCH For more than 150 years, First United Methodist Church has been dedicated to sharing the love of Jesus Christ and serving the community with compassion and purpose. Established in 1871, the church is among the region’s oldest congregations. With a mission to make disciples of Jesus Christ for the transformation of the world, the church offers three Sunday worship services and ministries for all ages. Through its partnerships with KIDSTOP, the Toy Lending Library, The Banquet, Feeding South Dakota, Nightwatch, and Habitat for Humanity, the congregation serves local children, families, and individuals in need. Today, First United Methodist Church continues to share Christian hope, love, and encouragement throughout Sioux Falls. EMBELIEVER AWARD
STEFFANIE HOLTROP, ’hood & MED Magazine, Familyfest Fun Cruise Steffanie Holtrop is Co-Founder and VP of Sales & Marketing at MED (Midwest Medical Edition) and Publisher of ‘hood Magazine — the region’s healthcare news and local parenting resources. A University of Sioux Falls grad (BA, Business; Mass Comm/Theater minor), she’s built her career around community-focused publications and events for Sioux Falls parents. She’s dedicated countless hours helping, donating, and serving on boards for groups like SDMGMA, SDAHO, Make-A-Wish, Go Red for Women, Sales and Marketing Executives, and Parenting Media Association. She’s especially proud of co-founding the Young Professionals Network of Sioux Falls. Steff lives outside Sioux Falls with her husband, Nate, and their two children, Jaxson and Khloe.
EMBELIEVER AWARD
DAN JOHNSON, First United Methodist Church Dan Johnson’s commitment to serving others began in childhood, shaped by parents who welcomed foster children into their home and taught him to see the potential in every person. Those values guided a career dedicated to helping children, families, and communities thrive. Today, as Director of Facilities at First United Methodist Church in Sioux Falls, Dan creates welcoming spaces where ministry, connection, and belonging flourish. He supports programs such as KidStop and the Toy Lending Library, helping provide safe and nurturing environments for children and families. Known for his humility, generosity, and servant heart, Dan quietly strengthens the community by empowering others and creating opportunities for people to flourish. EMBELIEVER AWARD
BRADYN MEDRANO, Sioux Falls School District Bradyn Medrano is a youth advocate driven by a belief that everyone deserves opportunity, belonging, and believes in their potential. Growing up as a Mexican-American in a group home in Omaha and overcoming adversity shaped his resilience, empathy, and commitment to creating change. Bradyn has led behavioral programs at tribal schools, co-created behavioral programming at the Boys & Girls Clubs, directed teen initiatives, led community outreach, and supported the College & Career pilot program at Jefferson High School. Through mentoring, coaching, leadership development, JDC volunteer work, and motivational speaking, he empowers youth, promotes cultural awareness, strengthens communities, and turns challenges into opportunities for growth. EMBELIEVER AWARD
JODI MERRITT, Reverence Counseling Jodi Merritt started Reverence Counseling 2021 as a practice rooted in grace for the challenges facing individuals and families. She has worked in addiction and mental health counseling, including supervising providers in outpatient and residential settings. Her heart is in sitting with clinicians, helping them develop clinical depth and interpersonal skills. She has cultivated an environment where therapists grow personally and professionally by learning from and supporting each other. Jodi and her team at Reverence help individuals and families find strength to own what they can control and set a course consistent with their values and aspirations. Jodi loves spending time with her husband, four kids, daughter-in-law and granddaughter.
EMBELIEVER AWARD DR. JILL KRUSE, DR. KELLY EVANS HULLINGER, DR. DEBRA JOHNSTON, DR. ANDREW ELLSWORTH,
Volunteers for Prairie Doc Programming Prairie Doc is a long-standing initiative dedicated to enhancing health and diminishing suffering by communicating science-based information that is built on trust. The organization reaches its audience through a multi-platform approach, including On Call with the Prairie Doc on television, weekly radio program, podcasts, and newspaper column. The impact of Prairie Doc is rooted in empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health, particularly for those in rural communities. We are grateful for our volunteer hosts—Dr. Jill Kruse, Dr. Debra Johnston, Dr. Kelly Evans-Hullinger, and Dr. Andrew Ellsworth—who give their time each month to make reliable health information accessible to everyone. EMBELIEVER AWARD
JENNIFER SCHUETTE, Kinder Academy
After attending the University of Sioux Falls to become a high school math teacher, life took Jennifer to Germany with her military family. There, she taught preschool for three years and helped open and operate a private K–12 school in Landstuhl. This is where she discovered her true passion for early childhood education. After returning to Sioux Falls, she wanted to bring her German experience home by creating a program with the personal feel of an in-home setting and the structure of a center. With her husband’s encouragement, they opened Kinder Academy in June 2018. She is passionate about creating a nurturing environment where children and families can learn, grow, and feel supported during these foundational years. EMBELIEVER AWARD
KATRINA YDE, Forward Counseling, Jorgen Yde Foundation Katrina began her journey in community education working as an intern for the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program as well working in a role that supported female inmate’s re-entry into society after incarceration. In 2011 Katrina co-founded the JY6 Foundation, a non-profit to raise awareness and funds for pediatric cancers. While in graduate school, Katrina received her training at Avera Behavioral Health Center and was awarded SDCA Emerging Leader award. She is now a Licensed Professional Counselor of Mental Health and Addictions and a Board Approved Clinical Supervisor. She opened Forward Counseling in 2020 primarily working with adults and adolescents. In 2025, Katrina individually raised $2,000 to purchase food and hygiene supplies for adolescents (and their siblings) who are under the supervision of the Department of Corrections.
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A S P E C I A L T H A N K YO U 2026 JU DG ES SANDY AUCH KIMBERLY BARTLING JEANNIE BL ACKMAN DR. WILLET TE ANITA CAPERS JEAN COLON JORDIN EDWARDS ANN FIORITA ANGIE HAFT ERIN HEALY SANDRA HENRY SYLVIA HENKIN FAMILY ANNA JANKORD BETH JENSEN ANTOINET TE JENSEN JEAN MAGNUSON PAMEL A MILLER CHARISSE OL AND IVY OL AND DANDAR MEGAN PEDERSON SADIE SWIER MADELEINE TITZE SUE WILL ARD JENIFER M. WOLLMAN, PHARMD, CSP BAILEY WOOD
OU R B OA R D M EM B ERS ANDREW CURLEY, Chair ALISSA MAT T, Vice Chair BRIAN GR AMM, Treasurer STACY HACKET T, Secretary BETH JENSEN, Immediate Past Chair MEL ANIE CARPENTER MADELEINE TITZE ANGIE HAFT STEVEN P. VLK SANDR A WALL ACE JAKE WURTH
A S P E C I A L T H A N K YO U V I DEO REFLECT I ON S LISA CONLIN,
2025 Performing and Visual Arts Award Winner
R AVAN ACKERMAN,
Chief Development Officer, EmBe
K ATE STO C K,
Regional Internal Communications Director, Sanford Health 2025 Business Achievement Award Nominee
REBECCA BEHNKE,
2025 EmBe Women’s Leadership Program, Leading Me Participant
LOGAN,
School Age Care Student, EmBe Education
APRIL MEYERINK,
VP Business Development, American Bank & Trust 2023 Banking & Finance Award Nominee
L AUR A WALL ACE,
2026 EmBe Women’s Leadership Program, Leading With Participant
LINDSEY MEYERS,
VP of PR, Communication and Community Engagement and Admin Lead for Women’s and Children’s SVC Line, Avera Health 2025 Business Achievement Award Winner
KERRI TIETGEN,
Chief Executive Officer, EmBe
EMBE WOMEN’S PROGRAMS Empowering Women, Building Workforce Strength
At EmBe, we believe that strong women build strong communities— and a stronger workforce. Our programs like Dress for Success Sioux Falls and Making Cents Financial Literacy help women gain the confidence, skills, and connections to enter or re-enter the workforce and pursue meaningful careers. But real impact comes when leaders like you get involved. After The EMBES, we encourage you to: • • • • •
Sponsor or lead a Making Cents Financial Literacy cohort Present on a topic you’re an expert at during a Level Up Lunch. Volunteer as a Dress for Success stylist, or assist with resumes and mock interviews. Give back with your time by volunteering at our quarterly Refresh Your Closet Sale. Support workforce pathways as a business sponsor.
Every hour, every resource, every word of encouragement helps women not just imagine new possibilities, but achieve them. Together, we’re growing talent, building resilience, and creating a community where women thrive.
EMBE WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Grow With Us, Lead With Us Leadership isn’t about titles or budgets—it’s about recognizing potential in yourself, others, and your community. By that definition, every woman is a leader, and the Women’s Leadership Program is here for you. Through three tiers—Leading Me, Leading With, and Leading Wise— women strengthen confidence, deepen influence, and share wisdom for the greater good. Whether you’re just beginning to own your leadership voice, seeking to understand your impact on others, or ready to mentor and invest in the next generation, there’s a place for you at EmBe. But this program is more than growth—it’s about giving back. After The EMBES, we invite you to continue your leadership journey with us by: • • • • •
Becoming a participant in one of our Leadership tiers. Serving as a mentor to guide women one-on-one. Sharing your expertise as a guest speaker or coach. Investing in scholarships so more women have access to leadership development. Sponsoring the program to strengthen the workforce and elevate women across industries.
Your involvement ensures that every woman who wants to grow has the opportunity to do so—and that our community continues to benefit from strong, empowered leaders.
You belong. You matter. You can make an impact. G E T I N VO LV E D T O D AY—R E A C H O U T TO M E L I S SA H IAT T O N W O M E N’S L E AD ER SHI P P R O G R A M OPPO RT U N IT IE S AT MH I AT T@E MB E.O RG OR VI SIT E MBE.O RG/W O ME N S-L EADERSHI P-PRO G R AM
E M B E E D U C AT I O N
The Foundation for a Thriving Life EmBe Education teaches children from birth to school age to grow socially, intellectually, and physically into educated, well-prepared members of their communities. At EmBe, our vision is to empower every child with the skills and mindset needed for lifelong success. Our commitment to nurturing a sense of curiosity, critical thinking, trust, loving compassion, fairness, and belonging transcends conventional learning methods. Comprehensive Care from 0-12: Nurturing Every Stage of Development With your generosity, we can continue to offer comprehensive care from infancy to age 12. Our commitment extends to after-school care and enriching summer programs that foster the inherent intelligence of each child. Impactful Initiatives: Beyond the Classroom We offer a range of impactful initiatives, including exposure to art, music, and team sports, as well as captivating field trips. These experiences go beyond academic milestones, providing a well-rounded foundation for lifelong learning. This is literacy in action.
G E T IN VO LV E D T O D AY—R E A C H O U T TO C AIT L IN R O T H SC H A D L O N E M B E E D U CATI O N OP E N IN G S AT CROTH SC H A D L@EMBE.O RG OR V ISIT E MBE.O RG/C H I L D CARE
E M B E YO U T H P R O G R A M S
Transforming Lives, Empowering Futures We uplift the power and potential of kids by providing opportunities for young people to build confidence, cultivate critical thinking, and nurture curiosity. Girls on the Run Girls on the Run is a transformational physical activity-based, positive youth development program for girls in 3rd-5th grades. Meeting in small teams, trained volunteer coaches inspire girls to build confidence and other essential life skills through dynamic, interactive lessons and physical activity. EmBe Volleyball EmBe Volleyball provides kids an opportunity to learn the skills of the game in a recreational, non-competitive environment. Teams are divided into two divisions; 3rd-4th grades and 5th-6th grades. Taekwondo Taekwondo is a Korean martial art that strives to teach courtesy, self-control, integrity, perseverance and a strong spirit. Our program is open to children ages 3 and up. Summer Programs EmBe Youth Summer Programs empower and inspire children through an engaging camp experience. Our programs include Camp Girls on the Run, Babysitting Camp, and Summer Volleyball.
G E T IN VO LV E D T O D AY—R E A C H O U T TO M A KE N N A E W O L D T O N R E G IST R AT I O N O R VO LU NTE E R OPPO RT U N IT IE S AT ME W O L DT@EMBE.O RG O R V I SI T E M B E.O RG/YO U TH
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UPCOMING EVENTS WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Leading With | Starts October 16 Leading With is tailored for women in leadership positions who want effective strategies for leadership and resilience in managing both internal and external challenges. Register at embe.org/womens-leadership-program
The Bold Table | Starts October 21 The Bold Table is for women ready to embrace their next chapter with clarity, courage, and presence, while seeking deeper connections, community, and personal growth. Register at boldidentitystudio.com/the-bold-table
GIRLS ON THE RUN 5K Saturday, October 31 | 9:30am - 1:00pm We are currently looking for volunteers to help us ensure the 5K is a safe and special day for all our participants! Learn more at embe.org/gotr
R E F R E S H YO U R C LO S E T S A L E November 12-14, 2026 | EmBe Downtown Grab your girls and shop guilt-free! Score incredible deals on brand-name women’s clothing, shoes, bags, jewelry, and more—all while empowering women through EmBe’s programs. 100% of proceeds support Women’s Programs at EmBe, focused on workforce development and leadership. Visit embe.org/closet-sale for details.
S AV E T H E DAT E ! In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast Tuesday, April 6, 2027 | 7:30 AM | Convention Center The In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast connects community members, supporting EmBe Women’s Programming. Event attendees will leave energized and inspired, understanding how EmBe empowers women to succeed. Learn more at embe.org/inhershoes WIFI: Hilton Honors PASSWORD: Canopy2026