Leadership Pierre - Tourism, News and Marketing

Leadership Pierre participants recently gathered for a day focused on three important drivers of community growth: tourism, news, and marketing. The session gave class members a behind-the-scenes look at how these industries work together to promote the Pierre and Fort Pierre area and support local businesses.
 

The day began at the Pierre Area Chamber of Commerce with breakfast and a virtual presentation from Erik Therwanger on harnessing collaboration. His message highlighted how partnerships and communication help communities succeed, setting the stage for the day’s discussions.
 

Participants then visited the Pierre Regional Airport and toured facilities with Mustang Aviation before returning to the Chamber for a marketing panel. Representatives from KCCR Radio, DRG Media Group, and Realizing Rural shared insights on how local news and media help businesses and organizations connect with audiences in rural communities.
 

The afternoon included a tour of the Oahe Dam and the Oahe Visitor Center, highlighting one of the region’s most significant tourism assets. Participants later heard from tourism leaders representing Visit Pierre, South Dakota Game, Fish & Parks, Missouri River Tourism, and the Pierre Business Improvement District No. 1 about how their organizations collaborate to attract visitors and showcase the area.
 

The session wrapped up with a presentation from Gloria Hanson, Mayor of Fort Pierre, who shared updates on development and growth across the river.
 

Overall, the day gave Leadership Pierre participants a better understanding of how tourism, news, and marketing all play a role in telling the story of the Pierre area and supporting the local economy.
 

Thank you to our sponsors:
Session: Visit Pierre
Lunch: Larkspur Landing
Champion: BankWest
Classroom: Capital City Campus
Exploration: RIver Cities Transit