Aug 2, 2022

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Karlie Solum, director of community relations with Marsh McLennan Agency.

Name: Karlie Solum

Age: 30

Hometown: Dell Rapids

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls was the “big city” growing up to me, so naturally we spent most of our time here. After finishing my undergrad in Brookings, I knew I wanted to get back to Sioux Falls to start my career. The opportunities are endless.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

I used to think I needed to move to Minneapolis, Chicago, the coasts, etc. to succeed and feel fulfilled. I was sorely mistaken after investing time and energy into our city and the people that live here. Sioux Falls is special. This is a community that rallies together to get the job done. Philanthropy, teamwork, core values and the friendly hello everywhere you go is something that is unique to Sioux Falls and why I have come to adore it here.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I get the privilege of working with a variety of people, businesses, nonprofits and other sectors across our community on a daily basis. Being able to connect dots and find innovative ways to make MMA and our community better is both a personal and professional cup-filler of mine. Working on the newly renovated sixth floor of Cherapa with incredible people doesn’t hurt either!

How did you get connected to your industry?

I have spent my last eight years at Sanford Health, so the insurance world was always adjacent to me. Being out in the community with Sanford, I always recognized MMA as a highly respected, community- and family-oriented organization that I was proud to know. When the opportunity arose to bring my skills to MMA, I knew I would be in great hands!

Describe Marsh McLennan in three words.

Collaboration, innovation, passion.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

Giving back my time and talents is how I feel I can best serve my community outside of philanthropy. Volunteering is a strong passion of mine, and you can typically find me at a chamber mixer as a chamber diplomat, fundraising for efforts like Forward Sioux Falls and serving on various boards and committees. Knowing your voice matters for change is so impactful!

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Trader Joe’s, Nordstrom and a fresh seafood restaurant.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

I want to be a continuous learner and always looking for new ways to impact and create positive change within our community. I am excited to be on this journey with MMA and looking forward to the great things we can do as an organization together over the next five years and beyond.