X

Education:

South Dakota State University, with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing

Share a little bit about yourself:

I am married to Tad and live on a farm near Delmont. I have two adult daughters, Trisha and Kera, who are also nurses. I enjoy spending time with my two granddaughters. Along with family events, I enjoy flowers, gardening, food preservation, baking, hunting and helping others.

As a member of Wagner Communities That Care, what facility/entity do you represent? How many years have you worked there/been in this named position?

I have been a long term staff member at the Wagner Community Memorial Hospital-Avera for 34 years. I have worked in various nursing roles starting in acute/ER nursing, clinic nursing and am currently serving as the Clinic Manger of the Specialty Outreach Clinic, including Behavioral Health Services. I have served as grant coordinator for various projects. I have successfully been grant coordinator, partnering with South Dakota Department of Health 8th Grade Career Fair/ Camp Med event for 13 years promoting health care careers. I have been an American Heart Association Instructor since 2003, as well as being a faculty member for Avera Training Center since 2018. I have membership with Immunize SD, a statewide coalition, serving on the Professional Development Board for two years. I have been involved with community organizations such as Wagner Area Health and Wellness Consortium, Wagner Cancer Walk, and Wagner Communities That Care.

What inspired you or why are you excited to be a part of the Wagner Communities That Care coalition and their efforts?

Serving as Wagner Communities That Care coordinator, I am excited about Wagner’s community passion, collaboration, and shared vision about youth prevention and resiliency.

What unique contributions do you contribute to the coalition?

I have a passion for prevention and education. I am excited to be part of Wagner CTC youth prevention efforts by helping coordinate programs and events to provide evidence based education to empower youth and provide a healthy, resilient community for our future.

Why do you think Wagner CTC efforts are important to our community?

Wagner CTC uses the Communities That Care prevention framework that provides communities, like us, with tools to address youth health and behavior problems through a focus on identified risk and protective factors. Additionally, the coalition is locally owned with a diverse set of community stakeholders, partnering together for these prevention efforts. Education and support nurture healthy behavior choices, successful youth, and a stronger community! Prevention efforts are essential for a resilient community. I am excited for the collaboration and partnership with others to make a positive impact in our community!

Education:

Education Specialist Degree from Southwest Minnesota State University.

Share a little bit about yourself:

I am married to Amy Jo and we have two daughters. Emma will be a Sophomore at Dakota Wesleyan University and Lydia will be a Senior in high school. I enjoy attending all of the different sporting events my daughters participate in and most any activity outdoors.

As a member of Wagner Communities That Care, what facility/entity do you represent? How many years have you worked there/been in this named position?

Wagner Community School. I have served 16 years in school administration and served as Wagner Superintendent for three years.

What inspired you or why are you excited to be a part of the Wagner Communities That Care coalition and their efforts?

I am inspired to be a part of the Wagner Communities That Care coalition because of its commitment to creating a healthier, safer, and more supportive community. The coalition's focus on evidence-based strategies to prevent youth substance abuse, violence, and other problem behaviors aligns with my passion for fostering positive development and well-being in young people.

Why do you think Wagner CTC efforts are important to our community?

The collaborative nature of the coalition, bringing together various stakeholders from the community, excites me as it allows for a diverse range of perspectives and resources to be leveraged in addressing critical issues. Being part of a collective effort to make a tangible difference in the lives of community members is both motivating and fulfilling.