Black Hills Native Returns to Her South Dakota Roots as New Executive Director of Wall Economic Development Corp.

South Dakota. Montana. Asia. Los Angeles. From graduating from Sturgis High School to studying abroad in pursuit of higher education, Dr. Rochan Burrell is fusing her love of rural community with the knowledge gained via a global career as she steps into her role as Wall Economic Development Corporation’s new Executive Director.

“When I saw the ad for (this) position, I was intrigued and excited by the possibility of creating and helping my new community grow,” she says. “Having been all over the states and traveled and worked internationally, I felt I could bring new experiences and opportunities to Wall.”

Growing up in the Black Hills, Dr. Burrell quickly developed an appreciation for the neighborly environment and effortless hospitality that epitomizes life in a smaller town. In the midst of a successful career that included earning a B.A. in Theater from Montana State University, traveling the world as a theatrical stage manager, studying abroad in China in pursuit of a master’s and doctorate in acupuncture and herbology, and starting her medical practice in Los Angeles, she felt an irresistible pull to return to her South Dakota roots. After many years of working and traveling, she and her husband decided to make their home in Quinn and open a restaurant in support of the local economy.

Impressed by the leadership of the City Council and WEDC to usher in the new 85-acre Wall Industrial Park, she wanted to join the effort. Leaning on her experience of having lived in rural communities as well as major metropolitan areas, she embraces the idea of inclusive planning and development that supports both regional and outside businesses in a balanced way.

“I believe that Wall is a great community to live and work in,” she says. “I love the small town feeling with its warm and caring people. I wanted the chance to help them grow existing businesses and create new businesses for the future, while keeping our town viable going forward. Ultimately, helping to create opportunities for residents so they can stay in the hometown that we all love.”

She recognizes that growth will take time, effort, and thoughtful planning to allow for improved infrastructure, housing, workforce development, living wages, and economic diversification that strongly supports the area’s agricultural community. “It takes a ‘village’ to do this,” she says.

It’s WEDC’s rich offering of various programs, grants, loans, and resources combined with South Dakota’s low cost of living and business-friendly environment that Dr. Burrell hopes will appeal to anyone looking to start or relocate their business.

“The WEDC is here to help existing business, new business, and developers build and grow, to keep and bring jobs to Wall so they don’t have to travel to find work,” she says. “Our doors are open.”

However, she also believes that the community spirit gives the town of Wall a strong advantage.

“Wall is a beautiful, safe community and a gem in the middle of our agricultural neighborhood,” she says. “This is a hard-working community that has pride in their town and wants the best for it and their neighbors. The support and help my husband and I were shown when we moved here and started our business has been so welcoming and wonderful. Having lived in many big cities over the years, I was overwhelmed that people help out of the kindness of their hearts.”

To learn more about Dr. Rochan Burrell and the Wall Economic Development Corporation, contact us today.