Economic development
Why Vermillion? abundantly clear once we moved, I established my business here, joined the chamber, and started meeting people. It was so refreshing to be around people who genuinely wanted to get to know me and consistently wanted to help connect me to others— whether it was for a personal or professional reason. I have received so much support and encouragement from the staff at the VCDC, other small business owners and professionals in Vermillion, and even my neighbors.
How are you wanting to get more involved in the unique community of Vermillion?
Kelley Ashby
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Sioux City, Iowa.
What inspired you to move to Vermillion?
After working in higher education most of my career, I decided to start my own business nearly five years ago. I was living in Ohio at the time. I had a powerful desire to move back to this area and be closer to my parents, my sister, and her family. I recognized the potential in being located between both Sioux City and Sioux Falls for my type of services. I quickly realized that Vermillion’s convenient location was only one of its many benefits. Given my background, I certainly was drawn to the college town atmosphere—it truly gives off a neat vibe that I appreciate, and the university provides so many fun things for community members to do. I was a college athlete and enjoy attending USD’s athletic events. But again…it was much more than location and college town vibe. The biggest inspiration for moving to Vermillion became the people. I say, “became” because while I had a sense of what the people and community were like from the visits prior to the decision to move, it became
I have joined the board of the Clay County Park Association. I also volunteer with the Vermillion Community Garden by harvesting produce and delivering it to the food pantry every week. One way I spend my free time is doing anything outdoors, so these organizations were both a good fit for me to volunteer my time.
The mission of my company is to grow and strengthen high performing teams and individuals. My hope is that I will be able to contribute my skills and expertise to anyone or any group that strives to create the type of environment where people can thrive, engage, and perform at their best. I certainly would love to help the high school and university athletic teams with this by offering to help their players better manage the emotional impact on their performance. I wish I knew what I know now about how to manage the emotions that come with stressful situations back when I was playing competitive sports so I would like to help today’s high school and college athletes with this.
What are some of the aspects you really enjoy about the community and how have you grown here?
I will say it again—the people. I know that may seem so cliché, but I mean it. In the two years I have lived in and established my business in Vermillion, I have met and worked with so many people who have helped me feel appreciated, like I belong, and that I have something valuable to contribute to this community. It’s great to be back home.
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