Martin, SD – Twelve South Dakotan change makers from across the state have been selected to join the 2023-2024 South Dakota Change Network, a yearlong learning and support experience for individuals creating more equitable, accessible, and welcoming environments where they live and work.
Participants are selected among a pool of applicants from throughout the state and the Native nations that share its geography based on projects they lead to drive positive change in their organizations and communities. During their time in South Dakota Change Network, these change makers gain proven leadership techniques from a multi-disciplined team, convene at in person events, and explore collaborative opportunities that are critical to their project’s long-term success.
Projects among the 2023-2024 South Dakota Change Network cohort include elevating the voices of South Dakota’s Hispanic community through music, multimedia content, and cultural presentations; creating spaces for indigenous youth to develop civil engagement leadership skills; providing servicemembers with safe spaces for difficult conversations and equipping them carry their learnings into their work-centers, and more.
“Across our state, the people of South Dakota are recognizing opportunities to bolster communities by fostering greater resilience, inclusivity, and mutual support,” said Kari O’Neill, Community Vitality Program Manager at SDSU Extension. “South Dakota Change Network empowers individuals with the necessary tools and structures to achieve their aspirations. Throughout the upcoming year, participants will glean insights not only from our experienced faculty, but also from each other, drawing from the diverse lived experiences within the cohort.”
South Dakota Change Network is led via a partnership of 3E Productions, CommonSense Consulting@Work, NAS, SDSU Extension, and filmmaker Charles Kennedye. Funding for the program is made possible through the generous support of the Bush Foundation. Upon graduation, participants will join a network of nearly 100 leaders from South Dakota Change Network and North Dakota Change Network who continue to collaborate in their work towards creating a more equitable and inclusive world.
2023-2024 South Dakota Change Network Cohort:
Miranda Basye | Sioux Falls, SD
Peter Britton | Sioux Falls, SD
Mandy Froelich | Vale, SD
Stephanie Kor | Sioux Falls, SD
Bernie McFarling | Box Elder , SD
Eduardo Mendoza | Sioux Falls, SD
Peri Pourier | Rapid City, SD
Cole Sartell | Brookings, SD
Brianna Venekamp | Sioux Falls, SD
Lisa Verdin | Sioux Falls, SD
JJ Wilson | Black Hawk, SD
Kadyn Wittman | Sioux Falls, SD
Learn more about South Dakota Change Network, meet the members of both the South Dakota and North Dakota Change Network cohorts, and follow the cohort’s journey online with #NDSDchangenetwork.
