Committees

Connections Committee
Responsible for motivating SME members to invite prospective members to attend SME events. Committee members also follow up with qualified guests to answer questions and to encourage them to join, coordinate and plan the SME Small Group events and membership mixers, and reach out to new members to meet with them and share the benefits of their SME membership and how they can get involved. Committee meets monthly, year-round.

Mark Schlueter, Thrivent Financial – Clarity Wealth Consultants | Chair

Marketing and Public Relations
The Marketing and PR Committee works with staff, Board and Committees to communicate to members and the media the accomplishments of the organization and upcoming events. This may include social media, press releases, participation in other committee meetings to aid in promotion events and activities. Committee members are also responsible for ensuring brand standards and that the look and feel of the SME brand is carried out through all promotions. The committee meets monthly, year-round.

Jericha Phelps, JDS Industries | Chair

Professional Development
Led by the President Elect and incoming Presidents, this committee is responsible for reviewing and making recommendations of the monthly speakers and sponsors for membership meetings and events. The committee meets as needed October through May.

Sheila Hoff, Keller Williams | Chair
Karen Starr, Prudential | Vice Chair
 

SME Women in Business®

An annual event held in March to celebrate women in business through education, networking, and laughter.  The committee is responsible to plan, implement and evaluate all aspects of the afternoon and evening event.  Committee meets monthly from September – March event.

Nichelle Lund, Holiday Inn City Centre | 2024 Chair
Ronna Poppens, Stewart Title | 2024 Vice Chair

Sioux Falls Leadership Summit

This event has the vision to bring the best trainers in the world to Sioux Falls to inspire and transform business cultures, both large and small. The first annual event in 2021 welcomes John C. Maxwell as our keynote speaker. The committee is responsible for all aspects of planning this event including sponsorships, marketing, logistics of the day, ticket sales, etc. Committee meets monthly, year-round. 

Justin Quigley, Fresh Talent | 2024 Chair

SME Golf Event
SME kickoff event held in August to engage members and introduce prospective members to the benefits of SME. The committee coordinates sponsorships, prizes, a Texas Scramble golf tournament, a non-golf activity, and a post golf program and meal. Committee meets monthly from March – August.

Charlotte Nelson, Goodwill of the Great Plains | 2024 Chair

Volunteer Committee

The SME Volunteer Committee organizes volunteer events for SME members as a way for our members to give back to the community and to connect with others in a different way.

Katie Studer, Avera Health Plan | Board Liaison
Jennifer Johnson, Gluten Free Please | Board Liaison