Dec. 28, 2023

First Premier Bank CEO Dana Dykhouse has been elected to serve on the Sanford Health board of trustees.

His term begins Jan. 4. Trustees are elected by the full board and serve up to three three-year terms.

“Living in Sioux Falls, I’ve had a front-row seat to the remarkable impact of Sanford Health. Sanford’s deep commitment to advancing the best in health care and investing in communities has had a profound impact on the well-being and economic strength of the region,” Dykhouse said in a statement.

“I am honored to join an outstanding team of leaders on the board of trustees and help advance Sanford Health’s mission of providing world-class health care for all.”

The 12-member board of trustees oversees governance for the health system, “guiding the pursuit of Sanford’s mission and providing oversight of the organization’s strategic direction and financial and operational performance,” according to a statement from Sanford.

The board of trustees’ nominating and governance committee is responsible for identifying, evaluating and recommending potential new members based on their qualifications and experience. Trustees represent a broad range of backgrounds, with extensive experience in health care, business, finance, technology and the nonprofit sector.

Dykhouse joined First Premier Bank in 1995. Under his leadership, the bank’s total assets have grown from $250 million to more than $3 billion, and the bank has been recognized for its performance and as a top employer nationally.

The Rock Rapids, Iowa, native has a long record of volunteer service to a number of economic development and community initiatives. He is the chairman for the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund and South Dakota Technical Education Board. He also serves on the board for the Freedom Scholarship, the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry and NorthWestern Energy.

“Dana’s profound impact on people can be felt throughout South Dakota – from his business and workforce acumen to the generosity of his giving,” said Bill Gassen, president and CEO of Sanford Health. “Dana has been a trusted advocate and champion of health care for many years, and I want to welcome him to our board of trustees. Our health system’s future will be stronger because of his involvement and his passion for enhancing the quality of life for our communities.”

Dykhouse joins fellow recently elected Sanford board members Augustana University President Stephanie Herseth Sandlin and former Veterans Affairs Secretary Dr. David Shulkin.