Celebrating Build Dakota Scholarship Success

Last fall, we were proud to host a breakfast event to highlight the Build Dakota Scholarship program and its statewide workforce initiative. The gathering brought together local businesses, community leaders, and school administrators to discuss how Wall can leverage this program to encourage more students to pursue skilled trades and return to contribute to our local workforce.

Our discussions emphasized the importance of collaboration among high school students, economic development efforts, and local businesses. Together, we identified ways to align workforce needs with student aspirations. A key focus was on providing students with hands-on experiences through the school’s internship program, allowing them to explore potential careers. From there, they can attend college with full-ride scholarships through the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund and return to Wall with job opportunities waiting for them.

Additionally, we highlighted how businesses can directly utilize Build Dakota funds to train their workforce, helping to address local employment needs and strengthen our community.

Thanks to these partnerships, one-third of last year’s graduating high school class became Build Dakota scholars. Congratulations to these outstanding students for earning this incredible opportunity!

• Brodi Sundall: Brandt Electric, Philip/Wall, SD

• Sean Dunker: 3B’s Heating and Air, Philip, SD

• Ben Amundson: Avera Health, Sioux Falls, SD

• Alexis Stephan: Philip Health Services, Philip, SD

• Jada Kusser: Avera Health, Yankton, SD

• Kadence Kusser: Avera Health, Yankton, SD

• Kaylen Spotted Bear: Goldenwest, Wall, SD

We are proud of these students’ achievements and excited about the positive impact they will have on our community. Programs like Build Dakota demonstrate the power of partnerships in shaping the future of Wall and ensuring that our workforce continues to grow and thrive.
Check out KEVN news story on our graduates on YouTube.