July 29, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kenley Lamberty, government affairs director for the Realtor Association of the Sioux Empire Inc.

Name: Kenley Lamberty

Age: 25

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I was born and raised here.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

I’ve said it before, and I’ll keep saying it. Sioux Falls is truly the greatest city in the U.S. There’s nowhere else I’d rather raise a family. The sense of community here is unmatched; even as the city grows, it maintains that small-town feel where people genuinely care about one another. With a thriving business environment, endless opportunities and no shortage of things to do, Sioux Falls is a shining city on a hill.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

My favorite part of my job is going out and meeting people in the community. Every week, you can learn something new and the great things people are doing to make Sioux Falls a better city.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I’d say it started with a little bit of luck. In college, I completed internships with Sen. Thune and the chamber in Vermillion, which gave me a solid foundation in public policy and community engagement. After graduating from USD — Go Yotes! —  RASE took a chance on me as someone fresh out of school, and I’m incredibly grateful for that opportunity. Over the past three years, it’s been exciting to see how quickly the housing market and conversations around housing can evolve.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Community, advocates, passionate.

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

It might not surprise those who know me well, but I have a deep love for politics. My grandma was the oldest intern for Sen. Thune, which was such a source of pride for our family. I have vivid memories of attending Ag Appreciation Day growing up, talking with our state leaders and listening to Mogen’s Heroes play “Sherry Baby.” Those early experiences sparked my interest and really shaped my passion for politics.

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

My favorite way to give back to the community is by serving on boards, volunteering at the St. Francis House, Habitat for Humanity and Veterans Community Project — all places that make a tremendous impact on the community.

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

I would like to see a Cosm.