Feb. 6, 2024

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Madison Godschalk, the development coordinator at the Sioux Falls Area Humane Society.

Name: Madison Godschalk

Age: 26

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Two reasons: My family and the friends I have had for 12-plus years. How could I leave that?!

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

The people I get to meet. Being in development, I get to be involved in the community and meet so many people from different backgrounds and industries — all with the common goal to help us achieve our mission to be a safe haven and human voice for all animals in need.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I have always loved animals since I was little, had a passion for people, and throughout college, I fell in love with event planning. When I found this job opportunity, I knew it was a perfect way to align my passions and strengths for the greater good.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Compassion, community and transparency.

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

I will never say no to a karaoke session!

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

Working with local businesses to hold donation drives for the animals at our shelter.

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

Trader Joe’s.

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

An animal rescue that focuses mainly on senior animals and providing hospice care for animals in their final years.