Economic development
Why Vermillion?
Chris Kassin
addition provided a home perfect for a young and growing family. Our children, Collins (8) and Kellen (5), are busy and involved in an activity almost every night. Vermillion offers an abundance of activities for our children while still maintaining a small-town feeling. And of course, we enjoy attending as many USD events as possible. It is quite a luxury to have such high-quality athletic and performing arts events right here.
How are you wanting to get more involved in the unique community of Vermillion?
Where are you from?
My family moved around significantly when I was a child. We lived in several states from Maryland to Oregon before finding a home in South Dakota. I graduated from Huron High School. By living in so many different areas, it is easy to appreciate what South Dakota has to offer.
What inspired you to move to Vermillion?
I was given an opportunity to finish my undergraduate degree in criminal justice and be a member of the men’s basketball team at the University of South Dakota. This was a life-changing move for me. I am thankful each day for this opportunity which springboarded me into a basketball coaching career after graduation. I spent 11 years as an assistant men’s basketball coach at USD. We had incredible success while also transitioning from NCAA Division II to NCAA Division I. I have lifelong memories of spending time with the wonderful coaches and studentathletes I was privileged to work with. From there I moved into an athletic development role with the University of South Dakota Foundation. I continued to live in Vermillion while serving as Vice President for Strategy and Athletic Director at Mount Marty University. This past May, I returned to the University of South Dakota Foundation as Vice President, External Relations. My wife, Katie Kassin, has a similar story of opportunity. She came to Vermillion from Colome, South Dakota. She received her undergraduate degree in Biology before attending the Physicians Assistant Program at USD. She practiced at Siouxland Urology in Dakota Dunes for 10 years before returning to USD as an assistant professor in the Physician Assistant Program. She is currently a practicing PA at Sanford in Vermillion. We have a lovely family and enjoy all Vermillion and Southeast South Dakota has to offer. The Bliss Point
Winter 28
As a result of the tremendous opportunities my family has been afforded in this area, I made the decision to run for the South Dakota House of Representatives for District 17. This is the district that represents Vermillion. I have lived in this community for over 20 years, but there is still much for me to learn. During this election process, I hope to learn so much more about what has been accomplished and what can be accomplished to keep Vermillion a special place to live and work. During my time at Mount Marty University, I studied the Benedictine charism. One of the tenants is to “listen with the ear of your heart.” I will bring this approach as I continue to listen to our constituents. I have talked to several people just within the last month and many share stories of opportunity very similar to mine and my wife’s.
What are some of the aspects you really enjoy about the community and how have you grown here?
I talked earlier about our daughter Collins. She is a spunky, fun-loving, keep-you-on-your-toes kind of kid. However, she was born with a genetic disorder, Cystic Fibrosis. This is a disease which affects the respiratory and digestive systems. She takes several pills and does breathing and airway clearing treatments each day. We were young parents and did not know what we could do to help. Well, what we found was the Vermillion community has joined us arm and arm in our fight to find a cure. To see the community rally around our daughter and this cause brings tears to our eyes. We are so fortunate for the generosity of so many. Vermillion cares. What started as a small fundraiser in our backyard has now grown to a block party which raises over $20,000 a year. The compassion this community has shown gave timid parents a voice. I would also be remiss if I did not mention the love and support shown by the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN), especially through Dakotathon. This is a USD student-run event to raise money and bring happiness to little kiddos like Collins. The students we have met are so passionate and so impressive. They have also helped us find our voice.
