Former intern moves into full-time role as business insurance advisor
June 9, 2026
This week’s Up-and-Comer is Leah Barber, a business insurance advisor at Marsh McLennan Agency.
Name: Leah Barber
Age: 23
Hometown: Sioux Falls
What keeps you in Sioux Falls?
There’s no place like home! I loved growing up in Sioux Falls. The sense of pride I feel when sharing that I graduated from Washington High School will never get old. Entering the “real world” in my post-grad years, though, has opened my eyes to all the intricacies of this great city. Nothing happens by accident here. Admittedly, I was ignorant to that prior to entering the workforce.
What’s your favorite thing about your job?
I always say that I would rather be busy than bored. In this role, there is never a dull moment. I get to be involved in a community that I am fiercely passionate about, constantly interact with wonderful people across various industries and learn new skills every single day.
How did you get connected to your industry?
I completed an internship with Marsh McLennan Agency during the summer of 2022. Those 12 weeks left a lasting impact on me as I finished out the remaining years of college at SDSU. I had zero hesitations about returning to MMA in the early part of 2024, and I still feel very fortunate to be here.
Describe your workplace in three words.
Engaging, dynamic, inclusive.
What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?
I once jumped out of a helicopter into the ocean in Hawaii, Navy Seal style. A truly unforgettable experience.
What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?
I enjoy serving in eKids at Embrace Church on Sundays.
What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?
Add me to the list of hopeful Trader Joe’s fans.
If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?
A coffee shop called Mugs. All drinks are served in a unique mug that each customer gets to pick from the “Mug Wall” with the option to purchase said mug. Southeast side of Sioux Falls. Yes, I have thought about this – I would be overjoyed to see someone steal the idea and make it happen.
