Aug. 12, 2025

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Jamie Weyh, a program associate at the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation.

Name: Jamie Weyh

Age: 35

Hometown: Sioux Falls

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

I grew up in Sioux Falls and have always been proud to be a part of this community. My family has lived in this area for many generations, and my immediate family remains in the area, so I have a unique connection to all corners of this city.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls is my home. It has endured the test of time for me, both maintaining the nostalgia of my childhood and creating vibrant communities that I can exist within as an adult.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

One of the things I love most about my job is the opportunity to learn more about the Sioux Falls community and to witness firsthand how incredible people are working to uplift and support one another. As a member of the community investment team at the foundation, I get so many opportunities to support important causes. A few examples include working with local nonprofits to maintain The Giving Depot page on the foundation’s website and administering our scholarship program.

How did you get connected to your industry?

After I left the education profession, I was still seeking a career that would allow me to continue making a meaningful impact. I gravitated towards my position at the Community Foundation because scholarship administration is one of its key responsibilities. It felt like a perfect fit. I’m incredibly grateful to maintain a connection to education and to play a small part in opening doors for our community’s students.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Attuned, collaborative, intentional.

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

I have a bachelor’s degree in mathematics and taught high school math for nine years. Algebra 2 was my favorite subject to teach!

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

I manage The Giving Depot, an online nonprofit bulletin board on the Community Foundation’s website. With this platform, I work with local nonprofits to highlight the impactful work they’re doing and share their requests for support. It’s a privilege to play a part in connecting generous individuals with meaningful causes right here in our community.

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

This is a tough question to answer because Sioux Falls has grown so much over my lifetime, with many businesses coming and going. That said, I’m still heartbroken over Long John Silver’s leaving the area. It was one of my favorite lunch spots to enjoy with my grandma Judy, and I have so many fond memories tied to it. I would love them to return!

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

One thing about me is that I love antiques and bargain shopping. There’s something so fun about finding hidden gems for a small price. I would love to create a bargain shop of my own and fill it to the brim with colorful, whimsical and unique pieces for others to enjoy.