Committee Members
Pattie Berkner - Chair, Legacy Financial Partners
Kesmond Willert - Vice Chair, Bowes Construction
Jenna Palmer - Secretary, First Bank & Trust
Tony Teesdale - Teesdale Law Office
Nate Bylander - SDSU Fishback Honors College
Shelby Byers - First Bank & Trust
Laura Sroufe - South Dakota State University
Alicia Springer - The Man Cave Barbershop
Billy Hunter - Jackrabbit Sports Properties
Seth Sayler - Best Choice Real Estate
Committee Purpose
To be a leader in the Brookings area’s workforce retention effort, connecting SDSU students, young professionals, and new residents with the community at-large.
The Connect Brookings committee focuses on engaging three important populations: new residents, young professionals, and SDSU students. Sub-committees gather between regular Connect Brookings committee meetings to develop programming and events.
Committee and sub-committee members are selected through an application process. Members are sought to provide a balanced skill set and have major responsibility for developing and promoting the mission, programs, and image of Connect Brookings. Individuals interested in volunteering should start at the sub-committee level.
Click here to download the Connect Brookings Committee/Sub-Committee Member Application
For more information, email us at info@brookingschamber.org.
Connect Brookings Committee Staff Liaison
Casey Stickland
Outreach Coordinator
casey@brookingschamber.org
Our New Resident Sub-Committee is proud of the recently launched website, LiveinBrookings.org, aimed at providing a one-stop shop for those new to our community.
New Resident Sub-Committee Members:
Seth Sayler, Best Choice Real Estate
Laura Sroufe, South Dakota state University
Jessica Lamfers, Mills Property Management
Laura Schoen Carbonneau, Visit Brookings
Paula Gapp, Daktronics
Heidi Briseno, Brookings Multicultural Center
Help Us Highlight our Outstanding Area Young Professionals
Nominations Due the First Friday of March
Recognizing Brookings Area Young Professionals
The Young Professional Awards recognize outstanding young professionals in the Brookings area who are making a difference in their careers and community. These awards celebrate individuals who exemplify leadership, innovation, and a commitment to enriching the Brookings Area.
Nominees must be employed by a Chamber member in good standing and can be considered for multiple categories:
- Emerging Leaders Award (honoring young professionals aged 30 and under who demonstrate exceptional leadership potential)
- Community Impact Award (recognizing individuals who have made meaningful contributions through volunteerism and service)
- Young Professional of the Year Award (the highest honor, awarded to a professional who excels in leadership, innovation, and community engagement).
Award recipients will be recognized at the Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Celebration. Submit your nomination today to help us celebrate the next generation of leaders!
Past Young Professionals of the Year:
2021: Dillion Ringling (Schade Vineyard and Winery)
2022: Chris Brozik (Civil Design Inc.)
2023: Pattie Berkner (Legacy Financial Partners Ameriprise Financial)
2024: Laura Schwarz (Falcon Plastics)