Leadership Pierre Session 8 Healthcare

The Leadership Pierre Class of 2025–2026 recently completed Session Eight, focusing on Healthcare, with the day sponsored by Avera Health. This session gave participants a behind-the-scenes look at the organizations and professionals who help keep our community healthy while highlighting the leadership, collaboration, and innovation required across the healthcare system.
The day began at the Chamber with breakfast and a virtual leadership lesson from Erik Therwanger titled Sharing Vision. This discussion challenged participants to think about how strong leaders communicate purpose, align teams, and inspire action—skills that are especially critical in the healthcare field.


From there, the group spent the day exploring several key healthcare organizations throughout the Pierre and Fort Pierre area.


One of the first stops was the Avera Careflight Hangar, where participants toured the facility and learned how air medical transport plays a crucial role in providing rapid emergency care across rural South Dakota. Seeing the operation firsthand highlighted just how vital quick response and coordination can be in life-saving situations.


The class then visited Avera’s Capital City Campus for a panel discussion featuring healthcare leaders including Avera CEO Shantel Krebs, along with directors from nursing, clinics, and the operating room. The panel shared insights into healthcare leadership, workforce challenges, patient care priorities, and how regional healthcare systems work together to serve communities across multiple states.


Over lunch, the group heard from representatives across the healthcare support system, including Delta Dental, DSS Medicaid, and Acrisure Health, who discussed how insurance coverage, policy, and advocacy play major roles in ensuring individuals and families have access to care.


The afternoon continued with visits that showcased the many layers of healthcare available in central South Dakota. Participants toured Capital Area Counseling Services, where they learned about the importance of accessible mental health and addiction services in the region. The group also stopped at Shane’s Pharmacy in Fort Pierre, where pharmacist-led health services and lifestyle support programs demonstrate how community pharmacies are evolving to meet patient needs.


The final stop of the day was LifeServe Blood Center, where participants learned how donated blood directly supports local hospitals and patients. Several members of the class even stepped up to donate blood, putting leadership into action through service.


Healthcare touches every part of our community, and this session helped the Leadership Pierre class better understand the collaboration required between providers, support organizations, and community partners to keep our region healthy.


With only one session remaining, the program is quickly approaching its conclusion. Our next session will focus on Arts & Culture, and it will also mark the graduation of the Leadership Pierre Class of 2025–2026. We are incredibly excited to celebrate this group and watch them take the next steps as leaders in our community.

Session: Avera St. Mary's Hospital
Champion: BankWest
Classroom: Capital City Campus
Exploration: River Cities Transit