A new CHSU cohort was chosen to begin the leadership program in September, 2024, graduating in 2026. Class members are:

• Sarah Crawford, Family Engagement Specialist, Community Based Services
• Peter ‘Pete’ Fixsel, Employee Growth & Development Specialist
• Kara Flynn, Director of Development, Foundation
• Kent Glazier, RYC II, Sioux Falls Children’s Home
• Tina Graber, WWK Adoption Specialist, Community Based Services
• Haley Groeneweg, Residential Therapist Sioux Falls Children’s Home
• Malia Holbeck, Clinical Director
• Clinton Hubers, Facilities Director
• Keanna Hubner, Housekeeping Coordinator, Shelter for Family Safety
• Britney Kennedy, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety
• Nathaniel O’Hara, RYC, Sioux Falls Children’s Home
• Angie Smith, Grant Specialist
• Derek Taylor, RYC II, Black Hills Children’s Home
• Amanda Tilberg, Nurse Home Visitor, Bright Start
• Andrew Truitt, Team Coordinator, Black Hills Children’s Home
• Katie Underberg, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety
• Mona Williams, Crisis Advocate, Shelter for Family Safety
• Lisa Wylie, Food Service Coordinator, Sioux Falls Children’s Home

As participants, CHSU students are exposed to a diverse array of leadership topics designed to enhance skills and broaden perspectives, such as:

Strategic Leadership: Developing vision and strategy to guide organizational success and navigate complex environments.

Effective Coaching Communication: Mastering interpersonal and group communication to lead teams and influence stakeholders.

Change Management: Understanding how to manage and lead through organizational change and transformation.

Decision-Making: Enhancing one’s ability to make informed and effective decisions in high-stakes situations.

Performance and Accountability Leadership: Exploring the principles of performance building leadership and how to apply them in decision-making processes.

Team Building and Dynamics: Fostering collaboration, managing team dynamics, and building high-performing teams.

The CHSU leadership program was officially launched in June 2020. Its primary goal is to build the confidence and leadership effectiveness of participants who will, in turn, impact and strengthen the work culture at CHS.

The first class was comprised of 45 CHS staff, followed by 27 individuals in Cohort 2, who supervise others or are in leadership roles across the agency. The long-term goal is to open training to as many CHS staff as possible.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026!