Feb. 26, 2024

Sioux Falls is filled with promising young professionals to watch.

In our second annual 30 Under 30, we again got a glimpse of the breadth and depth so many 20-somethings already have achieved, with more than five nominations for every spot available.

We ultimately chose people who showed clear early career achievements and promise for future leadership, strong engagement in the community beyond their workplace and innovative passion projects.

Watch for many stories featuring these rising leaders in the weeks and months ahead.

With thanks to our sponsor MarketBeat, we’re excited to introduce this year’s 30 Under 30.

Erik Barnes

Age: 27

Role: Senior vice president/senior loan officer, Dakota Business Finance

Hometown: Alcester

Education: Alcester-Hudson High School, South Dakota State University

In his own words: “I chose my career in finance to provide assistance to small businesses. It is very fulfilling to help a business owner obtain financing that enables the business to expand its business or get the business into its first building. My job is to help small businesses and banks navigate the Small Business Administration’s 504 loan program. The intricacies navigating this program can be challenging, so it is my job to streamline the process for Dakota Business Finance’s clients, ensuring a seamless transaction.”

From the nominators: “In addition to helping create expanded opportunities and growth for DBF and the SBA 504 loan program and SEDF’s (South Eastern Development Foundation’s) regional revolving loan fund, Erik has fostered relationships crucial for the organizations’ success. As the SVP/senior loan officer, Erik’s responsibilities range from marketing, underwriting and packaging loans for the SBA 504 Loan Program and SEDF’s regional revolving loan fund showcasing his versatility and comprehensive understanding of financial operations. He is a strong proponent of small and family-owned businesses and understands the impact small businesses have on the employees that work in those businesses and the local economy. In addition to his many work accolades, Erik also has a strong commitment to community service. For nearly four years, he served on the board of the Tea Economic Development Corp., including serving as its treasurer. He was also a board member of the Watertown Area Chamber of Commerce. He is currently an active member of the Downtown Rotary Club in Sioux Falls and YPN. He also volunteers for Junior Achievement and often serves at The Banquet to give back to his community. His participation in all these organizations underscores his dedication to community service and mentorship. Erik’s accomplishments not only in the professional realm but also in community involvement, demonstrate his potential for future leadership. The growth of the talented team under his supervision at DBF/SEDF/SECOG is a testament to his effective leadership style. His staff love working for him. Considering his professional achievements, community engagement and leadership skills, Erik is very deserving to be recognized as a SiouxFalls.Business 30 Under 30 recipient. As the leader of these three organizations, I have had the honor of working with many talented and bright employees in my 23 years as the president and CEO, and Erik is one of the best and brightest I have ever had the privilege to supervise and work with, especially at such a young age. I look forward to seeing the amazing things he will accomplish in his career, which will positively impact this community.”

“I have worked with Erik in several capacities, and he has been fantastic to work with! Erik has set high goals and expectations; he shows pride in what he does! I have been a customer of Erik’s for several years at his current position with SEDF and also with his previous company that he worked for, Relibank. Erik is very knowledgeable and has been very helpful with our business needs and loans for our company. I also served with Erik for many years with the Tea Chamber for Development, which he severed as our treasurer for the board. We also had several challenging years as our board had to make several changes, including rebranding Tea Economic Development Corp. to the Tea Chamber for Development. Erik played a major role in this transition.”

Clara Cañas

Name: Clara MacIlravie Cañas

Age: 26

Role: Grant writer II, Avera Rural Health Institute

Hometown: Gillette, Wyoming

Education: Bachelor’s degree in English, Black Hills State University; master’s degree in English Literature, University of South Dakota

In her words: “My experience in grant writing and my passion for storytelling and community have enabled me to develop a unique set of skills that I’m eager to apply to new challenges and opportunities. I feel lucky to work with a set of exceedingly talented individuals at Avera, all of whom share a passion of advancing rural and community health and positively impacting lives across the Upper Midwest. Sioux Falls is a vibrant and flourishing city, and I’m excited to be a part of its future.”

From the nominators: “Though her background is in the humanities, Clara has quickly established herself as an integral member of the health care community in Sioux Falls. Immediately after graduation, Clara joined Avera Health as a grant writer II at the Avera Rural Health Institute. In this role, Clara and her team manage and draft highly competitive grant proposals to federal, state and private organizations to advance rural and community health throughout the Upper Midwest. Over the past two years, Clara’s efforts have directly contributed to the millions of dollars awarded to promote essential rural health initiatives, including maternal care, capital improvements, telemedicine and community health. She oversees these projects from design and implementation through to evaluation and completion. Outside of her professional accomplishments at Avera, Clara is an active leader in the Sioux Falls community. She is a member of the Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network, serving on the social action team. Clara was also selected for the highly selective spring 2024 cohort of the Leaders of Tomorrow program, which recognizes Sioux Falls’ most promising young leaders. On top of her heavy workload, Clara continually seeks out new volunteer opportunities to give back to her community. Though early in her career, Clara has already made major strides professionally while demonstrating a heartfelt commitment to public service in Sioux Falls. One would be hard-pressed to find a more diligent, driven or ambitious candidate than Clara. It is for these reasons I wholeheartedly nominate Clara for this award.”

“As the youngest member of the grants department at Avera Health, she has demonstrated remarkable leadership skills, showcased by the fact she has held leadership roles at every job over the last eight years. Clara’s team-oriented approach is evident in her role, where she oversees grants from design and implementation to evaluation and successful completion. Her cheerful and calm presence, coupled with her quick learning abilities, make her an invaluable asset. If Clara’s trajectory suggests anything, she will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of rural health care and community well-being.”

Kaelyn Cowan

Age: 28

Role: Head acrobatics and tumbling coach, Augustana University

Hometown: Waco, Texas

Education: Midway High School; bachelor’s degree in corporate communications, Baylor University; master’s degree in organization communication, West Virginia University

In her words: “I chose the career to coach the NCAA emerging sport of acrobatics and tumbling because I wanted to be part of the sport and community that helped me grow into the person I am today. My goals are to help college-aged female athletes find their potential in sport through honing their skills of communication, discipline, respect and accountability. I believe sharpening these skills will show them how capable they are in whatever they desire to achieve after their sport careers end.”

From the nominator: “Coach Kaelyn Cowan has brought a new sport, new enthusiasm and new talent to the Upper Great Plains with the new acrobatics and tumbling program at Augustana. There are only 48 A&T programs at the collegiate level in the United States, and this is the first one in our region, the next closest being in eastern Wisconsin. Coach Kaelyn has been a masterful recruiter and brings her vast network of clubs, coaches, student-athletes and trainers to Augustana. In her second year at AU, her current roster includes 34 student-athletes from around the United States. Coach K earned the respect of her colleagues, her student-athletes, trainers and fans with the debut of the A&T sport to Augustana in 2023 where the team earned an impressive overall record of 5-2, including a competitive meet with the No. 2 nationally ranked Oregon Ducks. This year, because of Coach K’s visibility and network within the A&T world, the No. 1-ranked Baylor Bears will visit Augustana for a meet on March 23, 2024. Baylor is Kaelyn’s alma mater where she was among the National Championship team while in college. Coach K has made Sioux Falls her home and is an emerging leader in athletics at Augustana. Her vision for this emerging-sport program has further put Augustana and South Dakota on the collegiate athletics map.”

Trace Dobson

Age: 23

Role: Analytic consultant III, Premier Bankcard

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: Lincoln High School, Gustavus Adolphus College

In his words: “I am very thankful for the people who have helped shape my early professional life. I have been blessed enough to learn many things, and the commitment to giving back/community involvement, which Premier cultivates, will forever follow me. Identifying business opportunities through analytics is something I thoroughly enjoy and hope to continue as I progress in my professional career.”

From the nominator: “Since joining Premier only two years ago, he has rapidly ascended, being promoted twice in his tenure and becoming a trusted conduit of institutional and market intelligence for the company. His work has been critical to the advancement of Premier credit processes, consumer product strategies and program profitability innovations. He has built sophisticated reporting infrastructures, which are used across the organization and which provide valuable insights to real-time credit decisions. Additionally, Trace has built and maintains exceptional peer and supervisory relationships across all divisions and verticals in the company. He not only lives and breathes Premier culture, but he also adds to it on a daily basis. A Sioux Falls native and Lincoln High School graduate, Trace cares deeply for and is active in his hometown community. A member of Sioux Falls Thunder FC, he has taken his love for soccer and for Sioux Falls and committed himself to giving back. He is a volunteer assistant coach for his alma mater, reigning state champion Lincoln High School, as well as for Dakota Alliance Soccer Club. He cares deeply about using what he does well to make an impact in his community. Trace presents as an extraordinary future leader not only for Premier but for Sioux Falls and South Dakota. He demonstrates intellectual aptitude, high character and extraordinary work ethic at a rate and maturity well beyond his years. However, it is his kindness and philanthropic passion for his hometown that makes him stand out. Trace is a nominee whom Premier is committed to investing in. Perhaps more importantly though, Trace invests in Premier and in Sioux Falls in return. He is a future leader indeed.”

Maxwell Donohue

Age: 28

Role: Associate attorney, Woods, Fuller, Shultz & Smith PC

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: O’Gorman High School; bachelor’s degree in finance, University of Arizona; Juris Doctor, University of St. Thomas School of Law

In his words: “My favorite part of being a lawyer is playing a small part in shaping our incredible community. To continue this passion of mine, I hope the Sioux Falls business community considers Woods Fuller and me the next time they have business or real estate law related needs.”

From the nominators: “Max is an extremely hardworking professional who has taken on an increased role at Woods Fuller since he joined in 2021. He assists various clients in entity formation, corporate governance, private equity, corporate finance, mergers and acquisitions, real estate transactions and securities offerings. In the community, Max currently serves on the board of Volunteers of America, Dakotas and volunteers through Junior Achievement and the Veterans Community Project. Max is an active member of the Sioux Falls Chamber and YPN. He is also currently in the 38th class of the Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program. As a Sioux Falls native, Max has a passion for this city, and he cares to see the community prosper and grow. Max is a natural-born leader with great humility, and he will continue to be a huge asset to our community as he furthers his career.”

“Max is a third-year associate with Woods Fuller. During that time, he has grown as an attorney. Not only that, he continues to demonstrate a dedication to the community as well as a call to serve. Max is on the board for the Volunteers of America where he also serves on multiple committees. This past year, Max also volunteered for the Veterans Community Project community appeals campaign. He is a part of the mentorship program at his alma mater, University of St. Thomas School of Law. Max is a member of the Catholic Men’s Business Fraternity and participates in Junior Achievement at O’Gorman High School. Max practices law in the areas of business and corporate transactions and real estate. Max has been involved in Startup Sioux Falls and has an interest in helping entrepreneurs.”

Doria Drost

Age: 24

Role: Director of marketing and public relations, ASM Global – Denny Sanford Premier Center, and freelance marketing consultant

Hometown: Poquoson, Virginia

Education: Worthington Senior High School, Worthington, Minnesota; bachelor’s degree in marketing and MBA, Southwest Minnesota State University

In her own words: “In my few years in South Dakota, I’ve been blessed to connect with countless phenomenal individuals through my marketing role and involvement in numerous local professional networks and nonprofit organizations. I chose a career in the marketing field because I love helping connecting organizations to the public, and I’m blessed with how supportive ASM Global and Denny Sanford Premier Center are in supporting our local community, giving back and encouraging their employees to be actively involved in the world around them because it’s allowed me to do what I love while continuing to pursue my passions of volunteering and community engagement.”

From the nominator: “Doria has made significant contributions during her two years in Sioux Falls, within the community and within her workplace. She entered into her role as a director of marketing at only 22 years old and has helped bridge connection between young people and the live events industry through presenting at various colleges, including Augustana University and Southwest Minnesota State University on an ongoing basis. This spring, she will be bringing her talents into high school classrooms through the Sioux Falls Junior Achievement program. In 2023, she became a certified DE&I activator through the Sioux Falls Chamber. On top of working full time, Doria is a freelance marketing consultant and web designer for over half a dozen small businesses. She also donates her time and talents to assist nonprofits with their web and marketing efforts, including being an active volunteer for the Toy Lending Library of South Dakota and recently taking on a website project for Sioux Falls Reading Bridge. Other nonprofits Doria volunteers with are Junior Achievement, EmBe and Meals on Wheels. In her free time, Doria participates in Lake Benton Opera House’s community theater productions and is an active member of the Sioux Falls YPN and SME organizations. She also serves as a board member for the SiouxperCon nonprofit organization. She’s already shown ample leadership in the workplace through her role as a director and has taken on additional responsibilities with participating in her organization’s employee culture committee and being a liaison between the complex and Experience Sioux Falls at monthly meetings. Her work with welcoming a variety of artists to Sioux Falls has gained national and international spotlight for the Sioux Falls events venue with gifts like a hand-sewn leather aviator hat for Iron Maiden being worn in Canada – and matching jackets in Brazil– to Blake Shelton’s ‘Mr. Stefani’ denim jacket getting picked up by media outlets like “Good Morning America.” In her role, Doria welcomes a variety of groups to Sioux Falls and always does so with a big smile. In 2023, her venue was nominated as one of the ACM Arenas of the Year because of the continual hospitality and service they provide to the live events industry. Doria recently was recognized individually as one of 250 nominees nationwide for a Top 100 Marketer award through OnConferences, a group that recognized her organization’s marketing team as a Top 100 Team in 2023. Recently, Doria graduated from the Think3D Leaders of Tomorrow cohort and has also started in their Author of My Life program – further demonstrating her dedication to continuous personal and professional growth.”

Angelica Mercado-Ford

Age: 29

Role: Educator and coach, Sioux Falls School District

Hometown: Fremont, Nebraska

Education: Fremont High School; bachelor’s degree in fine arts, Briar Cliff University; Master of Education degree in teaching from the University of Sioux Falls

In her words: “I aspire to remain deeply engaged with my community, actively seeking opportunities to connect with its members on a personal level. By fostering meaningful relationships and understanding their needs, I aim to make a positive impact wherever possible, leveraging my skills and resources to support and uplift those around me.”

From the nominator: “Angelica exhibits an unparalleled level of determination, selflessness, creativity, professionalism and intelligence, all of which have proven to be invaluable assets to the Sioux Falls community. Hailing from Jalisco, Mexico, Angelica’s personal background uniquely positions her as a staunch advocate for immigrant rights, the LGBTQIA2S+ community, women’s rights and environmental justice, all of which are integral facets of her daily life. As a bilingual educator and coach, Angelica fulfills a vital role, ensuring equitable opportunities. She is also a prominent local artist, published poet and dedicated community advocate. Her contributions have been transformative. It is imperative for the youth of our community to have folks who reflect their own identities in key positions of influence. Angelica exemplifies an exceptional role model, shattering glass ceilings and illustrating that progress is not only achievable but essential. Her presence serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring individuals, demonstrating that diversity and representation are paramount in driving positive change within our city, both now and in the future. Angelica has received national acclaim as an artist, poet and dedicated community advocate – a testament to her multifaceted talents. Her written works, which converge around themes of womanhood, migration and cultural consciousness have garnered publication in esteemed literary outlets.

“Her attainment of a master’s degree places her among 4 percent of Latinx women who hold this advanced degree. Furthermore, her distinction as a Waterer’s Future Building Fellow Recipient in 2021, receiving a coveted community grant dedicated to the preservation and promotion of culture, is indicative of her commitment to fostering cultural enrichment. Most recently, she was honored with the Outstanding Young Speech Teacher Award by the Speech and Communications Association of South Dakota, a testament to her pedagogical skills and dedication to nurturing the next generation of storytellers. It is noteworthy that her exceptional coaching ability culminated in the recent accolade of the Donus D. Roberts Coaching Excellence Award, a distinction achieved at a remarkably young age. This distinction is a testament not only to her own storied history in speech and debate during her high school years but also to the resounding success of the students under her direction. In addition to her community involvement, she has been a tireless supporter of the local arts scene and has worked closely with the city of Sioux Falls to promote inclusion, equity and diversity. Her roles as a board member for the Transformation Project Advocacy Network and as a belonging, equity and inclusion officer with the National Speech and Debate Association underscore her commitment to fostering positive change. Her influence is felt in our community in a variety of ways as she has graced the cover of Empire Lifestyle Magazine, delivered keynote speeches at events like EmBe’s In Her Shoes Empowerment Breakfast and participated in panel discussions, particularly those addressing DEI issues, BIPOC voices and immigrant and refugee populations. At 29 years old, Angelica is already an established leader in our community with a trajectory for future leadership that will continue to impact Sioux Falls for the better.”

Leah Friese

Age: 27

Role: Director of marketing and digital media, Sioux Falls Development Foundation

Hometown: Pipestone, Minnesota

Education: Augustana University

In her words: “After growing up in a small, rural community about an hour from Sioux Falls, my family came to Sioux Falls frequently to shop, see movies, go to concerts, etc. Those small interactions over the years made me love this community, which is what helped me decide to attend college and start my career here afterwards. Today, my work at the Sioux Falls Development Foundation is dedicated to maintaining and growing the Sioux Falls that I experienced growing up. To have found a career that offers me such a strong sense of purpose is such a blessing!”

From the nominator: “Leah graduated magna cum laude with communication honors from Augustana University … and was pivotal in many student-led public relations projects – #SEEUS and Dress for Success campaigns – was an active campus leader and was always finding ways to give her time to others, specifically as a volunteer at Pueblo de Dios with their LOGOS program, a bilingual children’s program consisting of faith-building and community. She started her professional career as an intern with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and, after a two-year stint at The First National Bank in Sioux Falls, returned to SFDF as a digital and social media specialist before assuming her current role. In her role, Leah has been the point person for copywriting and photography with the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. She assists with all SFDF programming and initiatives, and is determined to help Sioux Falls retain and attract families, jobs and businesses to our ever-growing city. She also coordinates groundbreaking events for the many businesses that choose to call Sioux Falls “home” and is always willing to lend an extra hand or provide thoughtful insights. Currently, Leah is in Class 37 of the Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program. Her participation in his prestigious program is a testament to her commitment to the community of Sioux Falls and her desire to build bridges with other community leaders to articulate and advance all that Sioux Falls does now and in the future. She currently volunteers with the Furniture Mission of South Dakota as a marketing committee member and has shown her passion for service as she shares their vision within her network. I’ve had the privilege of knowing Leah for almost six years and confidently nominate her to be named to the 2024 30 Under 30 cohort. Leah is a go-getter and is someone that anyone would be lucky to have in their corner because of her attention to detail, her thoroughness and her inclusive and caring demeanor. Her love for the Sioux Falls community, intertwined with her professional knowledge and expansive network of colleagues, makes her a great addition to this prestigious cohort.”

Kaelyn Giefer

Age: 24

Role: Community engagement coordinator, Veterans Community Project

Hometown: Loveland, Colorado

Education: Bachelor’s degree in nonprofit management, Morningside University

In her words: “My passion for nonprofit work, helping others and the desire to be in a tight-knit community led me to Sioux Falls, and I have not looked back since! Being able to give back to our veterans for all they have sacrificed has truly been a life-changing experience, and I could not be more grateful to be a part of a dynamic organization like VCP. In my time in Sioux Falls, I have made countless connections, grown immensely as an individual and even found my forever best friend, Sullivan, who is training to become a certified therapy dog so we can give back to our community together!”

From the nominator: “Kaelyn is a force for good within the Sioux Falls community. She is never afraid to take on a new challenge and is always the first to step up to lend a helping hand to anyone in need. For veterans services, Kaelyn has frequently stepped outside of her comfort zone to help with outreach, identifying service partners and being a listening ear to our residents. Kaelyn embodies the true meaning of teamwork and always goes above and beyond to ensure the success of both residents and team members alike.”

Weston Hansen

Age: 29

Role: Business banker, vice president, The First National Bank in Sioux Falls

Hometown: Dell Rapids

Education: Dell Rapids High School; bachelor’s degree in economics, South Dakota State University

In his own words: “I genuinely love what I do every day. I get the opportunity to build relationships with people from every avenue of the business community – people interested in starting their own business, people who have ran a successful business for decades, community leaders/influencers and everyone in between. I am so grateful to The First National Bank in Sioux Falls for the development, mentors and culture that bring out the best in me. Banking is more than just loans and interest rates; there is real value to a relationship built on trust, honest conversations and caring about people, and I strive to bring that value to each and every relationship.”

From the nominator: “Weston Hansen has quickly become one to watch in our organization. He was initially hired at the bank in December 2016 as a business solutions specialist. Following a year of training, Weston joined the business banking team in April of 2019 and rapidly ascended through the lender experience levels at record pace to become one of the youngest team members to hold the title of vice president. Weston came into the lending role at a high-stress time with the pandemic hitting 12 months after he joined the business banking team. The pandemic caused banks to quickly pivot to writing PPP loans where Weston proved to be a tremendous asset due to his ability to learn quickly and his willingness to work hard until the job is done. His ability and propensity to be innovative has also been a noticeable and welcome addition to our team as Weston regularly brings forth ideas for ways we can improve our processes and better serve our clients. As a lender, Weston works hard to quickly learn everything he can about his clients and their businesses so he can offer the best advice and truly be a trusted partner in their banking needs. From a community standpoint, Weston’s hometown is Dell Rapids, but his involvement in many volunteer and recreational activities have left him well connected and supportive of the entire Sioux Metro area, especially Sioux Falls and Dell Rapids. Weston has volunteered his time generously with the United Way campaign, Junior Achievement and the Young Professionals Network. In his spare time, Weston enjoys golf and playing on amateur baseball teams in both Sioux Falls and Dell Rapids. Weston Hansen is one to watch not only in our organization but also in this community as he has boundless energy, a sharp mind and an eye for community service. Weston is a team player and will quickly become an asset to anything he gives his time to. His future is even brighter.”

Justin Heim

Age: 29

Role: Civil engineer, ISG

Hometown: Luxemburg, Iowa

Education: Western Dubuque High School; bachelor’s degree in civil engineering, Iowa State University

In his words: “Sioux Falls has proven to be a cultivator for aspiring young professionals. I am honored to be placed in this accomplished group and am excited to grow personally and professionally in the community. With my career as a civil engineer at ISG, I look forward to being part of the growth of Sioux Falls and having a part in shaping our horizon.”

From the nominator: “Justin is a dedicated employee-owner, making an impact in Sioux Falls and across the state. Early in his career, ISG — a local architecture, engineering, environmental and planning firm — recognized Justin’s drive and eagerness — qualities that match the firm’s culture. Presented with the opportunity to move across state lines to help grow ISG’s Sioux Falls office, Justin eagerly accepted the role, knowing the personal and professional leadership opportunities the move would bring. As a result, Justin became an office leader in 2022 and was selected to be a part of the inaugural class of ISG’s Leadership Acceleration Program in 2023. LeAP, an eight-month program, fast-tracks leadership skills and professional development of select employee owners and positions them for greater opportunities and influence within the firm. As one of South Dakota’s public works client leaders, Justin has been greatly involved in high-impact projects in the region, including South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development five-year capital improvement planning for 16 communities across the state, Hartford Regional Water Reclamation Facility, Cherapa Place mixed-use development in downtown Sioux Falls, city engineer for the cities of Hartford and Baltic, Centerville housing development and municipal engineering improvements in Fort Pierre and Britton.

“To remain connected to the community and the greater engineering industry in South Dakota, Justin has been involved with the South Dakota American Council of Engineering Companies Emerging Leaders Class, Young Professionals Network, South Dakota Engineering Society and American Public Works Association. While enjoying local events, organizational meetings and the atmosphere of local retail and restaurants, Justin is always listening, wearing the hat of how he can recognize community needs and offer ISG’s expertise to respond to those needs. The sky is the limit for Justin’s future. He is already an effective leader among fellow employee-owners, partners and clients, yet he still challenges himself continually and reaches further to make a real difference. He embraces employee ownership, gives each project his all, always puts his best foot forward and is reliable team player. Thriving as a South Dakota public works business leader, Justin makes our community’s tomorrow better than today.”

Jaden Holzer

Age: 28

Role: Assistant vice president/business banking, CorTrust Bank

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: O’Gorman High School, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

In his own words: “In my professional career thus far, I’ve had the privilege to work with family businesses, industry leaders, impactful nonprofit groups and some great co-workers. I’m always humbled by the work ethic and vision of those around me, and I seek to carry forward those traits in my personal and professional life each day.”

From the nominator: “Jaden was promoted to his current role in 2022 and is a reliable banker for his clients. He takes time to understand their needs and provide financing solutions that make sense for each individual client. Working at CorTrust, Jaden has had the opportunity to give back to his community in a number of ways. Jaden has offered volunteer hours to Junior Achievement, Sioux Empire United Way, Forward Sioux Falls and the St. Francis House. He is also a member of the Catholic Men’s Business Fraternity. In 2022, Jaden began volunteering with the Catholic Community Foundation for Eastern South Dakota’s Taste the Goodness fundraiser, serving as chair of the event’s auction. In 2023, Jaden was selected to join the Young Professionals Network steering committee where he provides his expertise to the membership subcommittee of the board. Jaden also volunteers with the Dakota Business Finance membership board, having served on that board since 2021. Jaden is an emerging leader in Sioux Falls that is always quick to help out when I call. He has volunteered for me on the Forward Sioux Falls campaign, the Taste the Goodness event and the Sioux Falls YPN. He never questions the value of giving back to his community and always jumps in when I ask him to. I see him as an emerging leader in Sioux Falls that will do big things in his industry and for this community.”

Rachel (Ehlers) Jacobson

Age: 24

Role: Marketing communications coordinator, The Bancorp

Hometown: Newcastle, Wyoming

Education: Weston County School District; bachelor’s degree in media and journalism and master’s degree in mass communications, University of South Dakota

In her own words: “I am very fortunate to have a team and company that supports both my personal and professional goals at The Bancorp. Being in a marketing/communications role, I get the privilege to interact and work with a lot of different organizations across the Sioux Empire. Sioux Falls is booming, and I look forward to continuing to foster relationships, make an impact and watch the community flourish.”

From the nominator: “Since starting at The Bancorp in 2022, Rachel has proven herself as an asset to the marketing team and enterprise as a whole. Her dedication and commitment to excellence sets her apart. Her accomplishments, particularly in her career and her active role in the community, highlight the reasons why she stands out as a deserving candidate for this honor. Rachel’s ability to learn her role exceptionally fast is a testament to her intelligence, adaptability and work ethic. This skill set is crucial in today’s fast-paced business environment and indicates her potential for handling greater responsibilities. Rachel faced the unique challenge of being the sole member of the marketing team located in the Sioux Falls office. Despite this, she has successfully built and nurtured relationships within the office and community. As the marketing communications coordinator, she plays a key role in our sponsorship program. Her outgoing nature and natural ability to connect and collaborate accentuates her exceptional interpersonal skills and her ability to work with a variety of internal and external partners. Rachel consistently goes above and beyond in her everyday work. Her commitment to excellence sets a high standard for her peers and illustrates her dedication to her career and the success of her company. Her ability to come up with creative solutions for projects and obstacles showcases her innovative thinking. This skill is invaluable in navigating the complexities of modern business challenges and positions her as a future leader. Being one of the first to offer help and maintaining a positive attitude, Rachel embodies the qualities of a team player and a leader. Her positivity not only boosts team morale but also fosters a collaborative and productive work environment. She is incredibly involved in improving company culture and is an active member of several employee groups such as the Employees Who Serve employee resource group and the community engagement committee. Additionally, as a member of the employee events committee for Sioux Falls, Rachel plays a crucial role in shaping the office culture and promoting employee well-being and engagement. Rachel has also played a significant role in training new employees. Her ability to mentor and guide newcomers not only demonstrates her expertise but also her willingness to support and develop others, a key quality of effective leadership. Her rapid professional growth, innovative problem-solving, exceptional relationship-building skills, dedication to community involvement and mentorship abilities mark her as an exemplary candidate for the 30 Under 30 list. Her achievements so far give a clear indication of her potential for future leadership, making her an ideal role model for aspiring young professionals.”

Jae Kelsey

Age: 27

Role: Human resources director, executive assistant, Sioux Falls Area Humane Society

Hometown: Brookings – adopted from China

Education: South Dakota State University; expected master’s degree in organizational leadership in 2024, University of Sioux Falls

In her words: “I am driven by a passion for personal and professional development, I entered the HR field with a focus on strategic hiring and creating supportive workplace cultures. My goal is to redefine HR leadership by emphasizing open communication, teamwork and continuous learning. In Sioux Falls, I aim to strengthen community bonds through authentic leadership and a commitment to making a positive impact on everyone I encounter, rooted in the belief in the power of service for collective good.”

From the nominator: “In her short time at the Humane Society, Jae has proven to be a key individual. She has moved the organization to a new HR platform, created a standardized central hiring procedure and has led a number of conflict resolution as well as professional staff training sessions. At the end of 2023, and beginning of 2024, the Humane Society brought payroll in house from an external vendor. At the same time, we added new health insurance benefits with a brand-new broker. With very little prior knowledge on benefits and payroll, Jae taught herself as much as she could and took on implementation of these changes. She successfully implemented the changes and trained the staff on how to enroll in these benefits. While in the middle of the stress of implementing these policies, she continued to handle HR matters, pre-screen all candidates for open positions and continued to perform all assistant functions to a very high level. Jae is truly an impressive individual who has a very bright future in leadership.”

Kristin Kotas

Age: 23

Role: Resident director and coordinator of housing and operations, University of Sioux Falls

Hometown: Emery

Education: Bridgewater-Emery High School; bachelor’s degree from University of Sioux Falls and MBA in progress

In her words: “After I complete my MBA, I plan to attend USD law school, with an end goal of working at a corporate law firm in the Sioux Falls area. I hope to further connect with the Sioux Falls community through pursuing service opportunities, attending community events and networking.”

From the nominator: “In her current role as resident director and coordinator of housing and operations at the University of Sioux Falls, Kristin has displayed remarkable dedication to enhancing accessibility and equity for students. She is currently pursuing a Master of Business Administration degree from USF in organizational leadership, which she will complete in May 2024. Kristin’s impact is evident in various initiatives she has spearheaded at USF as she successfully secured additional funding and resources related to accessibility and equity, positively affecting the lives of USF students. She led the relaunch and rebranding of the USF Food Pantry, creating a more private shopping experience and expanding access for students facing food insecurity. Her efforts also secured additional food storage, including a fridge and freezer for cold food items, providing students with more complete meal options. In the summer of 2023, Kristin established Cooper’s Career Closet at USF, a resource that gathers clothing donations to provide students with free professional attire, promoting equity and preparing them for the professional world. Recognizing the need for transportation options, she researched, developed and implemented the USF Bike Share Program. Furthermore, she facilitated a partnership with the Sioux Area Metro to provide students with additional free and flexible transportation within Sioux Falls, with the intent of connecting students to the multitude of opportunities with the city, and to help them overcome access barriers that they may face due to lack of transportation. Simultaneously, while implementing these special projects, Kristin supervises a staff of resident assistants, while ensuring the safety and well-being of hundreds of undergraduate students at USF. Her extensive undergraduate academic background, including a quadruple major in business administration, criminal  justice, social science and sociology, and involvement in the Alpha Chi National Honor Society, demonstrates her commitment to excellence. Beyond her current role, Kristin’s future plans include pursuing a Juris Doctor degree in corporate law beginning in fall 2024, where she aspires to be an influential leader in Sioux Falls. Her vision to assist clients in bringing their ideas to life showcases her potential to make lasting and positive impacts on the Sioux Falls community and its citizens for years to come. Kristin is truly deserving of recognition for her outstanding contributions and potential as a leader in Sioux Falls.”

Sienna Mayer

Age: 28

Role: Project manager, Raven Industries – a brand of CNH

Hometown: Manchester, New Hampshire

Education: Academy for Science and Design; Worcester Polytechnic Institute

In her words: “I am incredibly thankful to be at Raven working to engineer solutions that help farmers feed the world in a sustainable way. Sustainable innovation is a passion of mine, and being supported by Raven in those endeavors has been a privilege. Our community also continually inspires me, so giving back by volunteering and serving on boards is an honor. Overall, I feel so fortunate to be a part of our city’s growth and our state’s agricultural industry.”

From the nominators: “Sienna Mayer is a standout candidate for the SiouxFalls.Business 30 Under 30 list due to her exceptional contributions to sustainability and leadership in agriculture automation at Raven, a brand of CNH. As a project manager within our product development team, Sienna has made a significant impact during her just over a year with the company. Currently overseeing the harvest autonomy program, specifically the Raven Cart Automation™ project, Sienna’s role involves facilitating and leading the project team, ensuring alignment among functional areas, and successfully achieving project milestones. Her leadership style, characterized by a positive attitude and a strong technical skill set, has been instrumental in driving the success of the Raven Cart Automation project. Sienna collaborates effectively with team members and colleagues, demonstrating her ability to work across diverse groups and build strong relationships to influence decision-making. Sienna’s dedication to professional growth is evident in her proactive approach to learning and development. She has participated in leadership and learning events, showcasing a commitment to continuous improvement. Notably, Sienna was selected for the South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership Program, further expanding her knowledge of the agriculture industry in the region.

“Beyond her project management responsibilities, Sienna also has a genuine passion for sustainability and has been a driving force behind revitalizing the organization’s sustainability committee in Sioux Falls. Over the past year, she has significantly expanded the committee and led various initiatives to promote sustainable practices at Raven’s facilities. This includes updating recycling bin signage to minimize landfill waste, organizing cleanup events that removed over 500 pounds of litter from the Big Sioux River and securing silver-level certification for Raven through Building Sustainable Connections. She also initiated and worked with the Raven Cart Automation engineering team by optimizing harness lengths, reducing cable waste in kits shipped to customers. Recently, Sienna has extended her community involvement by joining the board of Building Sustainable Connections. Her active participation in this organization further demonstrates her commitment to fostering sustainability in the local business community, aligning with her vision for a more sustainable future. Sienna’s multifaceted contributions, from project management excellence to sustainability leadership, showcase her as a dynamic and forward-thinking professional.”

Luke Meyers

Age: 29

Role: Private equity associate, Badlands Capital

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: Lincoln High School in Sioux Falls, followed by West Point Academy

In his own words: “I am a proud Sioux Falls resident who moved back following my five-year career in the Army, which was highlighted by a nine-month deployment in Afghanistan. It was an easy choice to come home and have been working with Blaine Crissman at Badlands Capital for over two years. Badlands provides the opportunity to utilize the leadership and problem-solving skills I obtained in the Army while positively impacting the region by providing capital and resources to promising companies throughout the area.”

From the nominator: “Luke Meyers has been an associate with Badlands Capital since 2021. Prior to joining Badlands Capital, Luke graduated from the United States Military Academy – West Point in 2017, served his country domestically and in Afghanistan from 2017 to 2021. His exemplary leadership of soldiers and commitment to mission contributed to him reaching the rank of captain by the age of 27. Since joining Badlands Capital, Luke has contributed to Badlands Capital raising its latest fund, which invests equity in growing companies in the Midwest. Badlands is a small team with three full-time employees. As a result, Luke has been involved in all areas of the business, including, marketing, sourcing potential investment opportunities, performing financial, industry and strategic diligence on the companies, negotiating with owners and management teams, and working with the portfolio companies to develop further growth initiatives.

“Luke’s maturity and leadership capabilities have earned him the trust of portfolio company management teams as he works with them to create value for the companies and their employees. Luke has exceptional leadership capabilities at a young age. He’s led people much older than him in the Army, and he received leadership and team training at the greatest leadership institution in the world: West Point. Luke has brought this to Badlands Capital. I feel comfortable with Luke representing Badlands Capital in all settings. He works with our portfolio management teams in a way that respects the companies and their employees. Luke will continue to impact Sioux Falls and the Midwest economy as Badlands Capital invests in additional companies in the Midwest. He’s working with three manufacturing companies in the region as Badlands Capital pursues growth investments in the companies. He also leads Badlands Capital’s internship program and trains undergraduate students in financial modeling, industry analysis and competitive analysis. Under Luke’s leadership, Badlands Capital’s former interns have gone on to work in investment banking, private equity and asset management in Minneapolis, Chicago and Omaha. Badlands Capital is fortunate to have someone of Luke’s capabilities and experience. Luke could have gone anywhere and excelled, but he wants to contribute to the success of businesses in Sioux Falls and the region. Luke also impacts the Sioux Falls community through his involvement with religious education at his church, Holy Spirit Catholic Church, and serves on the Service Academy Selection Committee for Eastern South Dakota.

Kimberly Munoz

Age: 29

Role: Branch manager II, First Premier Bank

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: Washington High School

In her words: “Because of First Premier Bank’s immense support for volunteerism, it has afforded me the opportunity to connect with remarkable individuals, gain insights into the organizations fortifying Sioux Falls and foster trust among my customers. As a first-generation Hispanic American, I possess a deep understanding on the importance of offering genuine assistance, resources and expertise to my customers. In my role as a bilingual lender, I have acquired valuable insights into the unique needs of our Latin community, fueling my passion to serve wherever possible.”

From the nominators: “Kimberly joined the Premier organization in 2011 as a customer service representative while still a student at Washington High School. Following graduation, she remained with Premier Bankcard and attended classes at USD – Sioux Falls before eventually transitioning to a position with First Premier Bank. Through hard work, continuous learning, and a passion for excellence, Kimberly has not only exceeded expectations but also continues to inspire those she works alongside. In her time with Premier, Kimberly has been promoted five times, with her most recent promotion to branch manager II in 2023. Incidentally, her original promotion to branch manager resulted in her leading First Premier’s branch located directly across the street from the same high school she graduated from less than 10 years prior. As a branch manager, Kimberly is responsible for leading the operations of the branch, ensuring compliance, providing a high-level customer experience and achieving financial success. She has been instrumental in driving relationship growth while fostering a positive, service-oriented culture. Kimberly leads by example through our Premier values, and her inclusive approach has created a welcoming environment for both customers and employees.

“At the age of 7, Kimberly found herself bridging linguistic gaps, becoming the voice that connected her family with the world. It was at that time she recognized her passion for serving others. Inspired by the unwavering kindness and compassion of her mother and grandmother, Kimberly embraced the values of empathy and selflessness. Her mother, who immigrated from Guatemala, and grandmother demonstrated the art of giving back to others in need, instilling in Kimberly a profound sense of responsibility. Guided by their example, Kimberly set her sights on living a life of service. Driven by a desire to make a difference, Kimberly dedicates time and energy through service to Lutheran Social Services, Leaders of Tomorrow, Translators of Cultures, Kids Against Hunger, SD CEO East Women’s Center and a board position with the South Dakota Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Her focus is clear: to uplift others and empower the marginalized. In the end, Kimberly’s journey is not just about translation – it is about creating a language of understanding and empathy in a world often spoken in different dialects. With each translation, she creates a more compassionate and inclusive community, a tribute to the indomitable spirit of her family. Kimberly’s commitment to championing others and supporting our community through her work and volunteerism is commendable. She is a very deserving 30 Under 30 nominee who is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others now and well into the future!

“Kim is one of the rare QUIET powerhouses. Her continuous efforts to help build financial well-being for her clients – especially New Americans with language and culture barriers – is quite rare in our community. I use the word ‘quiet’ because she does not do her work for recognition, but she truly has a servant’s heart. As the daughter of immigrant parents that came to our country for a safer life, Kim has the unique ability to empathize with her New American clients as she knows the struggles they face in not only learning a new language but also trying to adapt to different cultural norms. Kim knows financial well-being is not only critical to everyone’s success but she knows that her New American clients’ financial well-beings are even more delicate. Kim manages a branch that is the only bank that offers direct multilingual services to my New American clients – I work in economic development. Kim makes sure that her bank’s sponsorship efforts reflect those very vulnerable communities, and in turn, her branch has seen tremendous growth in clients of all backgrounds. Kim might not ever run for public office, but she is already a natural-born leader as she is inspiring those New American communities to assimilate into Sioux Falls where they feel welcomed and driven to be productive members of our community.

“She’s extremely involved in the community due to her heart for others and our city. Kimberly is involved in multiple volunteering organizations such as Lutheran Social Services Mentorship, Leaders of Tomorrow engagement committee, Our Growth Project Street Team, The Banquet, Kids Against Hunger and a mission she founded called Knowledge is Power. Kimberly has a long and promising future ahead of her. With what she’s already accomplished, she’s proven that she rises above and goes “the extra mile” for others. In the future, we shouldn’t be surprised if she joins more boards, rises in responsibility at First Premier Bank or runs for local political office. She is the epitome of servant leadership, and she’s already displayed that all before the age of 30. She has a quiet strength to her that makes you feel safe. She’s one of the best listeners you’ll ever meet, and if you know her, you love her.”

Owen Perry

Age: 21

Role: Owner, Fit My Feet Orthotics & Shoes
Hometown: Rapid City
Education: New Underwood High School

In his words: “I extend my sincere appreciation to Sioux Falls.Business for the recognition. The dynamic business atmosphere of Sioux Falls is truly unparalleled, offering immense opportunities for growth and connection. I eagerly anticipate fostering further valuable relationships within the community and remain committed to empowering fellow young professionals towards success.”

From the nominator: “Recently, Owen purchased the entire Fit My Feet company – seven stores total. He has been in the shoe industry since his sophomore year in high school and started with Fit My Feet his senior year when COVID shut schools down. He moved from Rapid City to Mitchell to begin training as a certified shoe fitter with FMF at 17 years old in April of his senior year. He opened his own store in Rapid City in February 2022 and purchased the entire company in December 2023. He is working with the Veterans Affairs to help serve our vets and will be involved with several fundraising events in South Dakota this year as a sponsor.”

Haliee Pieper

Age: 28

Role: Vice president, commercial banking officer, Central Bank

Hometown: Watertown

Education: Watertown High School, Boise State University

In her words: “I appreciate the Sioux Falls business community and their overall willingness to embrace and support young professionals. I am fortunate to have excellent mentors this early in my career who have been willing to bring me along, share their knowledge and be a driving force behind my growth. I am committed to passing that on and will continue to look for opportunities to foster meaningful relationships that will ultimately contribute to our collective success.”

From the nominator: “Hailee’s academic journey at Boise State University is nothing short of remarkable. She not only completed her undergraduate and master’s degrees in a span of four years but did so with a perfect 4.0 GPA. Balancing this with her commitment as a member of the women’s golf team demonstrates her exceptional time management and dedication, skills that have translated seamlessly into her professional life. In the banking world, Hailee’s rise has been meteoric. Starting at Great Western Bank in Sioux Falls, she rapidly advanced through various roles, including credit analyst and financial analyst. This early career progression underscored her adaptability and keen analytical skills. Her move to Plains Commerce Bank further solidified her reputation as a banking prodigy, where she swiftly rose from a credit analyst to an assistant vice president, business banker and then to a vice president banker within a year. This rapid promotion, especially at the young age of 28, is a testament to her exceptional capabilities. Managing a very sizable portfolio highlights her profound understanding of the banking sector and her ability to handle significant responsibilities. Central Bank market president Hank McCall’s endorsement of Hailee speaks volumes. He notes her as one of the brightest minds he has worked with, emphasizing her exceeding expectations in every role and her impeccable character. While her professional achievements are stellar, I believe her potential for future leadership is equally impressive. Hailee’s career trajectory, combined with her academic background and discipline, positions her as a future leader who can inspire and mentor others in the banking sector.”

Kade Rexwinkel

Age: 28

Role: Director of corporate development, POET

Hometown: Corsica

Education: Corsica High School, University of South Dakota

In his own words: “I’d first like to thank SiouxFalls.Business and the Sioux Falls community for recognizing me on their 30 Under 30 list this year. From pouring concrete with my dad while growing up in Corsica to advocating for and bringing value to our bioethanol facilities at POET, I’ve always had a passion for helping make South Dakota a better place. I’ve been lucky enough in my time at POET to conduct business across the globe, and I can confidently say there is no place like Sioux Falls. I’m honored to be recognized alongside other individuals dedicated to shaping this community’s future, and I am extremely motivated to do all I can to keep us moving forward!”

From the nominator: “Kade has been a member of YPN and is part of the Leadership South Dakota Class of 2024. He was recently named to USD’s Alumni 30 Under 30 as well. Kade has been promoted multiple times at POET, continually given more responsibility. He has a fierce work ethic and is an incredible connector when it comes to people. Kade will continue to be a prominent individual within his organization and in the city of Sioux Falls.”

Dylan Shaw

Age: 27

Role: Audit manager, Eide Bailly

Hometown: Roslyn

Education: Webster High School, Black Hills State University

In her words: “From my childhood to where I am now in my career, I’ve always had great mentors inspiring me and pushing me to be the best I can be. Working for Eide Bailly has provided me with countless opportunities and resources, and allows me to connect with many other professions in Sioux Falls and the surrounding area. I’m so thankful to live in a wonderful, business-oriented community that is invested in the next generation.”

From the nominator: “Dylan has demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities not only in her professional position within Eide Bailly but also in the role of mentoring and helping her colleagues be successful in their roles. Dylan continues to excel in her ability to develop our team members and create an environment in our workplace that’s inclusive, supportive and inspiring. Internally, Dylan leads the training and development efforts for our audit department team in Sioux Falls. This not only includes the initial onboarding of team members starting their careers in accounting but also the continued learning as they progress their careers as CPAs. Her guidance has helped our newer team members be successful in their roles at Eide Bailly and contributes to the success of our clients through our advice and services that we provided to them. In addition to supporting our local team, many of Dylan’s efforts have been recognized nationally by the firm and have been leveraged to provide timely and focused training to our other team members across the country. This leadership has helped Eide Bailly continue to grow and be a firm of choice for many young professionals looking to start their careers in accounting.

“Just as Dylan excels in her role supporting our team members, she also excels in her role serving our clients. Dylan looks at each relationship with our clients as an opportunity to help them be successful through her support and guidance. She’s an innovative problem-solver and is always looking for what’s next, with the client’s best interest in mind. She’s been great in developing innovative strategies and optimizing financial processes to help clients grow and prosper in their business goals. Dylan brings a confident attitude that is supportive and that our clients enjoy, which makes her one of the favorite team members for clients to work with. Somehow, even with her immense dedication to staff and clients, she still finds the opportunity to dedicate her time and talents to the community. Dylan has volunteered in many ways to organizations within the community of Sioux Falls. It’s not uncommon to see Dylan helping out at The Banquet, leading our team during our annual Community Day or teaching students in the classroom through Junior Achievement. Her ability to understand the importance and impact that she can have beyond the workplace is something that makes her special. She understands that one of the things that makes Sioux Falls great is everyone working together to make the community better for all. Dylan has achieved outstanding success within our firm and in our profession at a remarkably young age. She’s deserving of this nomination because of her exceptional contributions to Eide Bailly LLP, the accounting profession as a whole and the community of Sioux Falls.”

Zachaeus Shaw

Age: 29

Role: Co-owner, Overstepping Poverty LLC; mortgage adviser, Nexa Mortgage

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: Began high school at Durango High School in Las Vegas before moving to Sioux Falls and graduating from O’Gorman High School, followed by earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from the University of South Dakota

In his words: “As a driven mortgage adviser at Nexa Mortgage by day and the passionate co-founder of Overstepping Poverty by night, I, Zachaeus Shaw, am on a mission to weave through the fabric of our evolving community narratives. With a keen eye on Sioux Falls, I’m calling for our community to embrace change, acknowledge our evolving landscape and recognize a generation of hungry, respectable and qualified individuals ready to bridge the leadership gap. My endeavors, both in the financial sector and through my podcast, aim to bridge divides, showcasing our shared human experiences to foster unity and strength among emerging business leaders and beyond. This journey underscores my commitment to not just leading with innovation but also with empathy, striving to be at the forefront of a more inclusive and understanding era in business. We are better together.”

From the nominator: “Zachaeus is the definition of a go-giver for the community. He volunteers his time and efforts to connect others through supplying others jobs, friendships and even business planning events. He has won rookie of the year for 2023 at Cross Country Mortgage. He has graduated Leaders of Tomorrow and pushed himself into the Author of My Life program. His podcast, “Overstepping Poverty” for the Sioux Falls community has helped so many people realize that poverty is not just financial and that everyone has a voice! I see the potential for Zachaeus to lead the community by social action events that are happening and being a beacon to connect and relate to others without having the hostility that we have in our world today.

Sadie Swier

Age: 28

Role: Director, SD CEO East Women’s Business Center

Hometown: Hartford

Education: West Central High School, University of South Dakota

In her own words: “My heart is filled with gratitude from this recognition, and I owe so many thanks to the unending support of our community. I’m honored every day to work to improve the Sioux Falls and South Dakota entrepreneurship ecosystem. Empowering small-business owners and especially woman drives my motivation. A glimpse into my future looks like continuing to grow as a statewide leader, volunteering in new capacities to help others and getting married this year!”

From the nominator: “Sadie IS Sioux Falls. Sadie lives and breathes this community and continues to make it a bright, shining welcoming space for all. She is Sioux Falls’ unofficial mascot, mayor, cheerleader, champion, saint and ambassador. If there is an event supporting Sioux Falls’ small-business community, women leaders, leadership programs, she is there. She is an active face at Chamber events, she is a board member for Bridging the Gap and a graduate of Leaders of Tomorrow, Authors of My Life and Leadership South Dakota. I have no doubt that Sadie’s name will be on a ballot someday. She is already a natural leader in Sioux Falls and in South Dakota. Her stellar reputation, ongoing education, volunteering efforts, contagious positive energy and critical thinking are not only desirable qualifications in leadership but also necessary for impactful and meaningful growth in our area!”

Erika Tordsen

Age: 29

Role: Associate director of alumni engagement, USD Foundation and Alumni Association

Hometown: Wagner

Education: Wagner High School, bachelor’s degree in media and journalism from the University of South Dakota

In her own words: “I’m an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe. I work full-time with the Foundation and Alumni Association, but I’m also the owner of a small business, Erika’s House of Cakes. When I’m not working or making desserts, I’m spending time in our great community with my husband, Tyler, and our two sons, Emmett and Atlas. Tyler and I have put down roots in Sioux Falls and we’re so excited for our family to grow here.”

From the nominator:

“In her role, Erika keeps USD alumni engaged and excited about USD through digital engagement, events and more. Her main priority is to share impactful alumni stories with our community and current and future students. She’s also a liaison between campus partners and the Foundation. She’s brought fresh and new ideas to the organization, and her future there is very bright. Erika was also in the inaugural USD Alumni 30 Under 30 class in 2018. Her small business, Erika’s House of Cakes was a pandemic hobby turned side business in the last year. For the last three years, she’s worked to learn the craft of baking cakes, French pastries and all kinds of other desserts. Her main specialty is custom cakes, which have been a hit with not only her family and friends but with strangers who’ve spread the word. You can find her work on Instagram: @erikas.houseofcakes. Erika was appointed by Gov. Noem to serve as a director on the South Dakota Board of Educational Telecommunications, which oversees South Dakota Public Broadcasting. She’s also on the Lost&Found resource development committee and in the 10th Leadership South Dakota class, which she’ll graduate from this March. She’s volunteered with Feeding South Dakota and SD Cares over the years and is also a member of the Sioux Falls Chamber’s YPN. Erika is already a leader in our community, and I’m excited to see what more she does in her future.”

Sara Waldner

Age: 27

Role: Account supervisor, Lawrence & Schiller

Hometown: Hartford

Education: West Central High School, bachelor’s degree in communication studies and media studies, Augustana University

In her words: “My whole life, I’ve been told that I’m ‘too much.’ I’m louder than I ought to be, take more risks than I probably should, and the people I love most will tell you I need to slow down and do less. But on the flip side, being ‘too much’ has allowed me to be more than just a business professional – I’m a yoga instructor, scuba diver, world traveler, event planner, passionate advocate, volunteer, active participant in our vibrant community and a bachelorette party-planning extraordinaire. When you have the right people in your corner – and I like to think I do – sometimes being too much is just enough.”

From the nominators: “Sara is the most ambitious, resourceful, solution-oriented, forward-thinking person I know. What she’s accomplished in her career and in the community in just five, six years in the workforce is unheard of. … With a diligent work ethic and a fearless attitude, she rose through the ranks quickly at L&S, going from intern to account coordinator to associate account executive to account executive to account supervisor, which is where she is now. Sara has worked with clients across virtually every industry, including banking, agriculture, health care, food service, higher education, retail and more, helping clients realize their full marketing potential. Not only has Sara helped her clients’ businesses grow, but she’s formed critical relationships that have helped retain accounts and propel the company’s new business efforts forward. Sara has not let her age stop her from taking on new responsibilities and forming connections with some of the most influential leaders in our community. In her role as account supervisor now and part of the expanded leadership team at L&S, Sara helps implement several processes that make her department and the company run more smoothly, including client retention strategies, presentation best practices, billing procedures and the latest project management techniques. In addition to her role at L&S, Sara is also very active in the community. She is a four-year Sioux Empire United Way fundraiser, Museum of Visual Materials board member, Augustana Alumni council member, fundraiser for the 2026 Sioux Falls Air Show and fundraiser for the Active Generations Chamber Appeals. Sara also previously served as education chair for the South Dakota Advertising Federation and gala fundraising committee lead for the Butterfly House & Aquarium. Sara also volunteers regularly with Friends of the Big Sioux River, Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation, The Banquet and Ronald McDonald House, in addition to her weekly breakfast club with other business leaders in the community. Sara is the epitome of a rising star and someone so deserving of this award. I know she is going to continue to lead our community through both her work life and her personal life to propel Sioux Falls and the surrounding area forward.”

“It’s hard to imagine someone under 30 that has been more involved or done more to contribute to our community than Sara Waldner. As someone who has worked closely with Sara for years, I’ve seen her jump at opportunities to help others, lead projects nobody else wants to take on and give up her personal time and talent to create a better community. Sara does all of this because it’s the right thing to do and not for any recognition. This recognition would go a long way in lifting up the work Sara has done and will continue to do, while serving as an example of what young people can accomplish with the right work ethic and drive.”

Karst Way

Age: 28

Role: Job captain, JLG Architects

Hometown: Mitchell

Education: Mitchell High School, bachelor’s degree in architecture, Oklahoma State University

In his words: “After college, I absolutely fell in love with Sioux Falls. With so many opportunities recreationally, socially and professionally, it became my mission to give back and support the people and organizations that make this community an exceptional place to live and work. Through volunteerism and my profession in architecture, Sioux Falls inspires me to keep building positive momentum for the benefit of generations to come.”

From the nominator: “Karst has a natural ability to inspire people around him, steering teams toward success while fostering a collaborative and creative work environment. He is heavily involved in building the culture of our firm and our community. Recently, Karst led the remodel of the local JLG office in Sioux Falls, which was an exceptional feat considering the office is entirely comprised of architects and designers. Over the last four years, he has been part of several complex projects at JLG and is currently leading higher education projects at SDSU. Outside of his SDSU project responsibilities, he plays an active role on the university’s architectural practice board, providing input to the program and spending time critiquing student projects for the school of architecture. Karst often spearheads the firm’s support of Downtown Sioux Falls, organizing JLG’s participation in multiple events throughout the year, including the Art and Wine Walk. He has built a great relationship with a Sioux Falls gallery to display the work of local artists within our office. Karst is also part of the Downtown Sioux Falls Development Council and routinely volunteers for the Levitt summer concerts and Eastbank Block Party. Over the past year, Karst has been volunteering as a diplomat for the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce. In this role, he welcomes new chamber members, meets with existing members, attends ribbon-cuttings and works diligently to promote the chamber’s efforts. With his wide range of architectural skills and enduring dedication to growing Sioux Falls, Karst is an outstanding nominee for this recognition – readily supported by our local office and eight other firm offices throughout the Midwest.”

Graham Westra

Age: 24

Role: Director of real estate, Midwest Fidelity Partners; entrepreneur

Hometown: Sioux Falls

Education: Lincoln High School, bachelor’s degree in finance, University of South Dakota

In his words: “My passion is real estate, cars and people. Being able to say I incorporate all three into my career is a blessing. The car wash industry is one of a kind with nothing comparable to it. I’m honored to receive this award in my hometown as I absolutely love it here; Sioux Falls community is unlike anywhere else. I am super thankful to be surrounded and coached by great leaders in and around the Sioux Falls area and hope to make a greater impact in Sioux Falls development in the years ahead.”

From the nominators: “Graham graduated from USD a semester early. He is very driven and determined. He started working for Midwest Fidelity Partners six weeks after graduation. Since starting there, he has consistently increased his responsibilities. He oversees real estate development in seven states. Graham is well known and respected in Sioux Falls. He values his relationships and constantly strives to build upon them. He is well respected by his co-workers and peers, who all look up to him. He is also building his own real estate portfolio.”

“Graham has worked for us since he was just 14 years of age. Starting off in the car wash bay spraying cars down at Silverstar Car Wash to becoming an analyst throughout college and now our director of real estate. He’s on his 10-year mark with us, and we could not be prouder and happier to have him be part of this team. His determination and extreme work ethic creates so many opportunities for Midwest Fidelity Partners as we continue to grow. Having Graham ‘boots on the ground’ in our markets has been one of the best things to happen to us! Outside of work, we strive our employees to be entrepreneurs in all aspects of life, and Graham has taken full advantage of this with building his own real estate portfolio. He is the definition of a serial entrepreneur and massive risk-taker!”

“Graham is dedicated to being successful in and out of the office. He’s extremely smart and brilliant, and always seems a light at the end of the tunnel despite how many times people tell him no. He shows resilience to adapt and innovate here at Midwest Fidelity Partners and continue to grow in all aspect of business. We are extremely grateful to have Graham part of our team and are excited to see what the future holds for him.”

Ty Wiley

Age: 29

Role: General manager, Save Our Space; various roles within family businesses Sioux Falls Kitchen & Bath, Wiley Painting and Crown Custom Casework; partner, Gerry Wiley Capital

Hometown: Sioux Falls
Education: Washington High School, University of Nebraska-Lincoln

In his own words: “I was born and raised in Sioux Falls, and I love this community and everything it has to offer. There are so many great young leaders in this city, and I am honored to be on this list. I grew up as the ‘boss’ son’ and have worked my way from filling nail holes and staining underneath garden-level decks to now being in more of a leadership role. I would not change my path for anything, and it has made me who I am today. My parents instilled in me the mindset of treating everyone, from the janitor to the CEO, with equal amounts of respect and kindness. I truly believe how you treat others gets reflected back into how others treat you. I hope to take what I have learned and continue to innovate and impact others positively in business and in the community of Sioux Falls.”
From the nominators: “I have known Ty for his entire life and have watched him develop into a leader in the community of Sioux Falls. In everything he does, he succeeds and is a shining example of working your way up and leading by example. His extraordinary design skills paired with his relationship and people skills make him a special person and leader. I have been lucky to know him and watch him grow and will continue to be supporting him in anything he does. He deserves recognition as much as anyone I know in the Sioux Falls business community, and I am very confident that will be the case for many more years ahead.”
“He is such a natural leader and is as determined and driven as anyone I have ever met. He cares for the people he works with and takes great pride in the work he does. I have never seen as natural of a leader as him, let alone someone under 30. He is very creative and skilled in his craft, and he is truly a problem-solver. He has grown up around the family businesses, and I have personally watched him improve the business with his ideas, creative-thinking and people skills. Chances are that through the years, Ty has had his hand in your home or business building project. He was born and raised in Sioux Falls, and he has great pride in this community and making it a better place. He is very selfless and doesn’t boast about his achievements or contributions. He helped design and create wardrobe closets for the Veterans Community Project and has volunteered his time and efforts in multiple other projects.”

Matt Zobel

Age: 28

Role: Structural engineer, ISG

Hometown: Arlington

Education: Arlington High School, South Dakota State University

In his words: “My favorite subjects growing up were always math and science, which is what led me to pursue an engineering degree. As a structural engineer, I get the opportunity to help shape the built environment and improve the spaces we live, work and play. Through my career and community involvement, I look forward to the challenge of helping Sioux Falls grow and move the needle.”

From the nominator: “In Matt’s role at ISG, he works as part of a full-service team assisting clients with design, analysis, safety and compliance, and project management of the structural aspects of their project. His creative approach and problem-solving skills have made him a valuable member of his firm. Outside of work, Matt has recognized the value in becoming an engaged community member and is developing a reputation as an emerging leader. As an SDSU grad, Matt continues to support his alma mater by engaging with the school’s alumni association and offering his experience and career advice to current students in classrooms and seminars. Matt engaged with the Sioux Falls Young Professionals Network early in his career. In 2022, he joined the organization’s steering committee and has co-chaired its social action team since he joined, planning the organization’s networking events. In 2025, Matt will co-chair the organization’s flagship event: the YPN Crossroads Summit. He has been a valuable asset for our organization and someone I can rely on to always be willing to lead. Matt also volunteers his time and expertise with Habitat for Humanity, where he has been on their construction committee since 2021 and serves on their board of directors. Matt consistently raises his hand when there’s an opportunity to engage with his community and provide his expertise. He is a rising star for Sioux Falls and will be a difference-maker in his firm and in this community in the future.”