April 8, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Catherine Schlimgen, senior assistant city attorney for the city of Sioux Falls.

Name: Catherine Schlimgen

Age: 40

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I was born and raised in Sioux Falls. I left after graduating high school to attend college in Las Vegas. After graduating, I decided I wanted to pursue additional schooling and determined South Dakota was where I wanted to be. I moved back home and enrolled at the University of South Dakota School of Law. After I graduated, I got a job as an attorney in Sioux Falls.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

So many things keep me here. My husband and I are raising our children here. They each have wonderful friend groups and are involved in a ton of activities. My parents are still in Sioux Falls, and they provide invaluable support for our family — you’re never too old to need your parents! I also have a fabulous group of friends.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love working with my colleagues to find creative solutions to complex problems. It’s a wonderful feeling to know the work we do leads to improvements for our city.

How did you get connected to your industry?

After I graduated from college, I did not know what to do with the rest of my life, but I had to work. I found a job that was not very fulfilling; however, it exposed me to the legal field. That exposure made me realize I had a passion and skill set for research, writing and critical thinking. I decided to parlay those skills to a field that would both challenge me and allow me to help others.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Collaborative. Supportive. Integrity.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I graduated from college with a degree in theater performance. My dream for many years was to work on Broadway. In retrospect, I’m glad I decided to pursue a different path in life.

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

My husband and I give back to our community in many ways, but my favorite way is through my participation in the South Dakota Symphony Chorus. I am a firm believer that music has the power to bring people together and create a sense of community. It can raise our mood, provide encouragement and inspiration, and challenge us. Watching people derive joy from our performances is fulfilling.

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

Nordstrom Rack.

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

My husband and I love finding and eating at local mom-and-pop restaurants. We frequently discuss how hard it must be to survive in a world full of chain establishments. I would create a company that utilized the power of digital ordering and online marketing to help these restaurants grow their online presence and drive sales.