Freedom Works Here.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. – The Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED) honored the hard work of communities and leaders during this year’s Governor’s Conference on Economic Development. Governor Kristi Noem announced three major award winners: Centerville as Community of the Year and Dean Dziedzic and Brooke Rollag as recipients of the Excellence in Economic Development award.
“South Dakota continues to prove that hard working individuals make a difference in every community,” said Governor Noem. “Congratulations to today’s winners – and to everyone who works to make the freest state in the nation the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”
The Community of the Year award honors a community that has made strides in economic development, community enhancement, job creation, and quality of life. Centerville has committed to building a better future for itself and its residents. Long range plans by the Centerville Development Corporation (CDC) have positioned Centerville for impressive growth. The importance of housing has been the community’s main focus, with the town creating a 14-acre housing sub-division with 28 lots. In addition to housing, Centerville has been working on expanding its business district. Two-and-a-half acres have been secured for a light industrial park for future development.
The Excellence in Economic Development award recognizes individuals who have excelled in economic development throughout their careers.
Dean Dziedzic, Vice President of Economic Development for the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, received the Excellence in Economic Development award. As someone who is passionate about Sioux Falls, Dziedzic works tirelessly building relationships with company decision-makers, acquainting them with the city and the resources available to them to relocate or expand in the area.
Brooke Rollag, Executive Director of Lake Area Improvement Corporation (LAIC) in Madison, was also honored with the Excellence in Economic Development award. Rollag has spent her time at LAIC focusing on priorities such as workforce development and childcare. Rollag knows that connecting personally to community and business leaders allows her to better understand Madison and its needs.
During this year’s record attendance setting conference, GOED led the way in premier economic development events by bringing in experts from both in-state and out-of-state to better educate those in the industry, as well as celebrating with over 400 individuals at the awards luncheon.
GOED also announced the launch of Freedom TV to continue marketing the state. An episodic series will feature in-depth South Dakota success stories that can be viewed through GOED’s YouTube page, www.freedomworkshere.com and sdgoed.com.
Next year’s conference will be held in Pierre from February 25-27.
