March 8, 2022

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Sophie Johnson, the community development manager at the South Eastern Council of Governments.

Name: Sophie Johnson

Age: 28

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Although originally from Sioux Falls, I moved to Pierre for a couple years after college to work in state government. I moved back home to be closer to friends and family.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Friends and family but also the shopping, entertainment, dining, etc. – the luxuries you can’t always find in smaller communities.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I love the fact I am able to assist cities and towns in making their communities a better place to live. Helping communities to apply for and secure funding can in turn contribute to a better quality of life for their residents.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I have a passion for government, especially local government. I have held various jobs and internships in local government, including fire/EMS, planning and zoning, and city management. I am also working to earn my doctorate of public administration, which I hope to have completed by the end of the year.

Describe SECOG in three words.

Helpful. Multifaceted. Committed.

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

I was the finance officer for Utica, South Dakota, while in college. Utica is located just outside of Yankton, South Dakota, and has a population of about 65 residents.

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

I like to participate in events that contribute to Sioux Falls’ local economy. A recent event that comes to mind is the annual Downtown Burger Battle.

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

Dunkin’ Donuts or Trader Joe’s.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

At SECOG with my doctorate.