Nov. 18, 2022

A bilingual leader whose work includes Lakota/Dakota programming is the new leader of the Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls.

Valeria Wicker began her new role Nov. 1. Her transition comes at a time of change for the organization too.

LSS and the Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls began integrating programming in October.

Onboarding Wicker is a positive step in the right direction to a full transition by year-end, LSS president and CEO Rebecca Kiesow-Knudsen said in a statement.

“We are excited to have Valeria in this role. She will do a great job in community-building and empowerment in Sioux Falls. We are confident Valeria will strengthen existing relationships, develop new connections and create opportunities.”

Wicker comes to LSS from South Dakota State University, where she was a program coordinator for work with Lakota/Dakota programming. She has 10 years of experience in education, including more than five years with tribal nations. Wicker, who is fluent in Spanish, has a master’s degree in teaching and a bachelor’s degree in Spanish/American studies.

“I feel very privileged to be at the helm of the Multi-Cultural Center. The vision of the MCC is very similar to my personal conviction that society is at its best when its wealth of cultures, backgrounds and experiences are valued and thriving,” Wicker said. “In more than 25 years in existence, MCC has offered interpreting and workforce development services, a safe space for youth and an affordable gathering place. It is part of the rich tapestry of this great city.”

Wicker has lived in Sioux Falls for one year and in South Dakota for almost seven. She said she’s mindful of honoring diverse backgrounds and seeks out opportunities to mentor youth and connect with families.

“I recognized in the MCC a piece of myself. My life, too, has been a meeting of cultures,” she said.

Wicker will play a significant role in shaping multicultural services moving forward as LSS continues to listen to the community’s needs, Kiesow-Knudsen said.

“We will continue to gather insight from individuals and groups from all cultural backgrounds in Sioux Falls and strategically plan and apply those insights to ensure that the MCC is a valuable and vibrant resource for our community,” she said.