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Attendees at the Wednesday session of the Day of Development. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
Established and emerging leaders gathered for two days of personal and professional growth on Tuesday, March 25, and Wednesday, March 26, as the third annual Day of Development was held.
Attendees attempt to balance peacock feathers. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
The event began on Tuesday evening at Lake Area Tech. The session was open to the public but was geared primarily toward educators. Former South Dakota State University football coach John Stiegelmeier spoke on his history in education and coaching, urging the educators to care about their students. Noted author and speaker Dan Thurmon spoke about balancing life, using juggling to make his point.
The highlight of the Tuesday event was the presentation of the Community Builder awards. These recognize five community leaders for their commitment to making the Watertown area a better place to live and grow. Honorees were given the award by LATC President Tiffany Sanderson. Awardees include: Josh Finstad of Reliabank, Jeff Gamber of County Fair, Anne Beebe Hanson of the Original Marketing Group and the Watertown Shamrocks, Sam Mooney of Dakotaland Federal Credit Union, and Roger Whittle of the Watertown Current.
Community Builders include, left to right: Roger Whittle, Sam Mooney, Anne Hanson, Jeff Gamber and Josh Finstad. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
Dan Thurmon balances on a podium at the Day of Development. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
Wednesday was a full day at the Goss Opera House. Attendees were welcomed by Grand Ole Opry recording artist and humorist Mike Rayburn. Morning breakout sessions were held throughout the Goss. Dr. Jared McEntaffer, CEO of the Dakota Institute, spoke on the state’s recent budget problems and its source, and using sales tax as a measure of economic growth. Retired Huron Superintendent Terry Nebelsick spoke on the role of leadership and creating meaningful connections. Author Mike Donahue presented on his book, “Talking to Brick Walls.” Coach Stiegelmeyer shared more stories from his 46-year career.
Rich Remmers, Scott Jongbloed, and Tim Toomey hold a panel discussion. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
Following lunch, attendees were able to sit in on panel discussions with area leaders. The discussions included “Improving Morale and Culture in Your Office,” with Watertown Police Chief Tim Toomey, Watertown Fire Rescue Assistant Chief Scott Jongbloed, and Rich Remmers of First Premier Bank. John Melius of Hurley & Associates, Nash Colberg of Haugan-Nelson Realty, and Brittany Petrick of Rosabella Boutique and Labby’s Sports Bar discussed “Growth Mindset in Action.” Goal setting and strategic planning were discussed by attorney Liam Culhane and Stuart Stein. LATC Vice President Cam Corey, Watertown School Superintendent Dr. Jeff Danielsen, and Plains Commerce Bank Market President Chris Swiden spoke on leadership in turbulent times.
Wednesday’s highlight was the naming of the “Top 4 under 40,” honoring young community leaders in Watertown and Codington County. Laura Heathcote of the Watertown United Way and Michael Heuer of Watertown Brewing Company were honored, along with Culhane and Colberg. All winners, representing an array of backgrounds and industry, were lauded for their dedication to their community and commitment to growth.
The “Top 4 under 40.” Left to Right: Nash Colberg, Liam Culhane, Laura Heathcote, and Michael Heuer. Photo by Brandon Heim, Watertown Current.
