Leadership Pierre 2026-2027 Session 1: Business, Financial, and Leadership Development
Leadership Pierre 2026–2027 Session 1: Business, Financial, & Professional Development
The Leadership Pierre Class of 2026–27 officially kicked off on Thursday, September 10, 2026, with a full day centered on Business, Financial, and Professional Development. Sponsored by Eagle Consulting, the session set the tone for a year of growth, learning, and community connection.
The day began at Capital City Campus' Avera St. Mary's Auditorium with the full program and classroom only students. The classroom session focused on "Leading Thru Chaos," an in-person session with Erik Therwanger that challenged participants to think differently about leadership in times of uncertainty.
From there, the full program students hit the road for a variety of experiences showcasing the vibrancy of Pierre's business community:
- At BankWest, the group took part in the BankWest Shark Tank Activity, putting their business and financial thinking to the test.
- The class then headed to the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce for lunch and a lively Business Panel featuring Robin Rowe (SD Small Business Development Center), Brianna Kaiser (Larkspur Landing Event Center), and Roby Bass (Pierre Closets).
- At Morris, Inc.'s brand-new Concrete Ready-Mix Plant, the cohort got a firsthand look at how one of Pierre's longtime family-owned businesses continues to grow and invest in the community.
- The day's tours wrapped up at the Ramkota Hotel & Conference Center, where the cohort learned more about the business behind one of Pierre's premier hospitality venues.
A huge thank you goes out to our generous sponsors who make this program possible:
- Program Sponsor: BankWest
- Session Sponsor: Eagle Consulting
- Transportation Champion Sponsor: River Cities Public Transit
- Community Exploration Sponsor: American Bank & Trust
- Classroom Sponsor: Capital City Campus
We can't wait to see what's ahead as the class continues its journey next month with Community Services, sponsored by Thrivent.
Learn more about Erik Therwanger by clicking this link.
Stay tuned on the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook Page for updates on Leadership Pierre!
