1. education
2. graduate school
3. college

2014 Sioux Falls Diversity Conference—
November 19, 2014
“Empowering Diversity Today for a Better Tomorrow”
Sioux Falls Convention Center
Keynote Address: 8:45 am - 10:00 am (Ballroom A)
“Diversity and Inclusion through the Eyes of a General”
Discussion on the four dimensions of diversity characteristics identified by the Military Leadership Diversity Commission
that should be considered by leaders of all organizations:
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•
•
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Demographic Diversity
Cognitive Diversity
Structural Diversity
Global Diversity
Working to enhance the “demographic diversity” of our organization is a good first step, but if we fail to effectively engage
these individuals and fail to include them in a meaningful way, they will eventually walk out the door and we will back
where we started.
Introduction by: Senior Master Sergeant Michael J. Clauson, SD Air National Guard
Presenter: Major General Timothy A. Reisch,
Adjutant General for South Dakota
Major General Timothy A. Reisch was appointed by Governor Dennis Daugaard as South Dakota's 21st Adjutant General
on 2 April 2011. He also serves as Commanding General for both the South Dakota Air and Army National Guard and
guides the preparation of 4,300 Air and Army National Guard citizen Soldiers and Airmen and 950 full-time Federal and
State employees to respond in times of state or national emergency. General Reisch is responsible for federal and state
missions, assignment of leaders, recruiting, training, equipping, mobilization, facilities and public relations. He is also
responsible for formulating, developing and coordinating all policies, plans and programs affecting Army and Air National
Guard members in South Dakota. General Reisch serves on the governor's cabinet as the Secretary of The Military. In this
capacity, he is the principle advisor to the governor on all matters involving use of the National Guard.
General Reisch began his military service when he enlisted in the South Dakota Army National Guard in his hometown of
Howard, SD in 1978. He received his commission through State Officer Candidate School in 1980. He commanded both
Company C and Company B of the 153rd Engineer Battalion. In July of 1998, General Reisch was named Commander,
153rd Engineer Battalion. Following battalion command, General Reisch was assigned as Chief, Exercise Division, South
Dakota Army National Guard, and later as Deputy Commander, South Dakota Joint Force Headquarters. Following
completion of Army War College, he was named Commander, 109th Engineer Group based in Rapid City. In April of 2007,
General Reisch was named the first Commander of the 109th Regional Support Group.
Breakout Sessions
Session One: 10:15 am –11:45 am
“Bullying in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 3)
We will describe situations where bullying diminishes worker productivity, creates a hostile work environment, and
interferes with communication impacting employee’s health and mental well-being. An HR Professional will participate to
respond to HR questions that participants may have.
Champion: Jenneil Watkins
Presenter: Melinda Olson
Melinda Olson is the Director of Prevention, at Volunteers of America, Dakotas. She manages the operations of the
Southeastern Prevention Resource Center in Sioux Falls, SD. Melinda is a Certified Prevention Specialist, through the
Certification Board for Alcohol and Prevention Professionals. She has a BA in English and Art, a Master’s degree in
Guidance, Counseling and Personnel Services from SDSU and Graduate Education in Drug Education and Curriculum
from Concordia College, Chicago, IL. In addition, Melinda has worked as a teacher and as a prevention specialist in
public school settings.
Melinda is a member of the South Dakota Prevention Network, Past Board Member of the South Dakota Chemical
Dependency Association and is on the USD Addition Studies Department External Advisory Council.
“Welcoming Our Transgender Family and Friends: Opening the Door”
(Meeting Room 6)
Steps for inclusion will be given with practical ideas for how organizations can take concrete steps to provide a welcoming
environment for transgender or gender non-conforming persons. Participants will gain an understanding of transgender
and gender non-conforming, and other terminology used when referring to transgender persons.
Champion: Verzella Bauman
Presenter: Terri Carlson
Terri is a retired elementary/early childhood teacher. She received her BS in Elementary Education and her MA in Early
Childhood Education. After teaching in the classroom, she operated and taught art a preschool. She started in Yankton,
SD before moving to Sioux Falls in 1999. Since retiring, Terri has held a number of volunteer positions, including SD
Symphony League board member and president, Sunday school teacher, Board of Education and Women’s fellowship,
CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate).
Terri started and has been the director of the Sioux Falls PFLAG (Parents, Families, and Friends and Allies Unite with
LGBT People to move Equality Forward) Chapter since October, 2008. She is currently Regional Director for National
PFLAG’s Northern Plains Region (SD, ND, MN, and WI).
“Mental Health Issues in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 7)
Identify mental health issues in the workplace. Provide education on common mental health diagnoses. Provide education
on treatment options for mental health diagnoses in the workplace and how to utilize community based resources and
treatment options within the local community.
Champion: Carol Knudtson
Presenter: Dr. Rajesh Singh
Dr. Singh is an Adult Psychiatrist at Sanford Behavioral Health Clinic. Dr. Singh did his pre- medical training in New Delhi,
India and Medical Training in Shimla, India. His postgraduate training was at Indira Gandhi Hospital, India and his Junior
Residency in Anesthesiology. He also completed a Junior Residency in Cardiology, Indira Gandhi Hospital, India where he
received invaluable experience. He had the opportunity to work extensively in the cardiac care unit and assist attending
physicians in pacemaker implantation.
He had a private practice as a general physician in Chandigarh, India. During this time, he evaluated 25-30 patients a day
and diagnosed and treated various diseases. He was a Pharmacology Lecturer at BRS Institute of Medical Sciences,
India. He taught clinical pharmacology to 2 nd year BDS (Bachelor Dental Science) students while practicing in the medical
outpatient clinics.
His Psychiatry Residency was with the Department of Psychiatry, USD School of Medicine. He was Chief Resident,
Department of Psychiatry, USD School of Medicine, Sioux Falls. He was on a visiting fellowship in Electroconvulsive
Therapy, Duke University Medical Center.
He is board certified with American Board Psychiatry and Neurology. He was promoted to Associate Professor,
Department of Psychiatry, Sanford School of Medicine, USD, School of Medicine, in March, 2010.
“Did I Really Say That? A Look at Unconscious Bias in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 8)
Help participants learn how to recognize subtle discrimination and ways in which they would not even know they were
discriminating. Once Unconscious Bias is understood, look at strategies to eliminate them in the workplace.
Champion: KaReeBo Adams
Presenter: Mark Blackburn
Mark is the Assistant Dean of Students and Director of Diversity & Inclusion at Augustana College in Sioux Falls. In his
position, Mark is responsible for managing students from different cultural and ethnic backgrounds. He supports and
advises students in the area of accountability, leadership, personal development, diversity education and advocacy. Mark
also develops and promotes culturally-focused programs and helps build student, faculty and staff awareness and respect
for cultural and individual differences. He is the Chief Facilitator for MBJ Innovations Enterprises and provided training to
groups and individuals. His hard work and dedication to improving the human condition keep him striving to connect with
others. He is truly passionate about helping others become champions in every aspect of their lives.
Presenter: Diane Maeschen
Diane is currently the Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Program Manager, Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
Coordinator, and Reasonable Accommodations Coordinator for the Sioux Falls VA Health Care System. In this position,
Diane is the technical expert on EEO issues including the discrimination process, mediation and teambuilding training.
She also coordinates all reasonable accommodation requests for the local VA facility. Diane has been an employee of the
federal government since 1989 and in her current position since 2008. Her experience and education make her
knowledgeable in EEO, Diversity and Inclusion, Accommodations, Mediations and Team Building.
“Women Empowerment”
(Meeting Room 9)
This panel discussion will highlight leadership development through courses, training, on-the-job performance and
motivation to succeed. What happens when women enter the equation?
Champion-Kari Ann Boushee
Panelist: Julie Ashworth
Julie Ashworth taught elementary school in Sioux Falls, SD from 1975 to 2002 and came to Augustana College in 2002 as
assistant professor of Education. She was named the Sioux Falls School District Teacher of the Year in 1992, and the
South Dakota Teacher of the Year in 1993. She received The 2009 Vernon and Mildred Niebuhr Faculty Excellence Award
to recognize excellence in teaching as well as the 2008-2009 Augustana Student Association Faculty Recognition Award.
Her research and passion involve equipping future teachers to teach students from diverse backgrounds and students
living in poverty. She has traveled to Tanzania, Africa, India, South America and Norway to supervise student teachers
and work in a variety of schools.
Panelist: Darla Crown
Chief Warrant Officer Five (CW5) Darla Crown was appointed as South Dakota’s Fifth State Command Chief Warrant
Officer on April 3, 2011. As the Command Chief, she serves as the senior warrant officer advisor to the Adjutant General
to address the warrant officer development and strength management of the Warrant Officer Corps. Darla is responsible
for keeping the Adjutant General informed and making recommendations in matters of recruiting, morale, welfare,
schooling, promotion and retention. She oversees a Warrant Advisory Committee as the spokesperson to advise the
Adjutant General and the chain of command on warrant officer management.
Darla began her military career in 1973 with a three year active duty in the U.S. Army, enlisting in the Women’s Army
Corps. In 1976, she joined the South Dakota Army National Guard. She spent the next nine years in numerous enlisted
positions prior to her direct appointment. Throughout her career, she has served as a Military Personnel Technician, Area
Office Manager and Administrative Officer, and prior to her selection as Command Chief Warrant Officer, she was in the
G-1 Section with Joint Force Headquarters. Darla deployed CONUS in 2004 in support of OIF II as a Medical Liaison
Officer, traveling across the United States ensuring injured South Dakota soldiers received the care they needed. In 2002,
Chief Crown was promoted to Chief Warrant Officer 5, the first female Chief Warrant Officer in the South Dakota Army
National Guard.
On the civilian side, Darla taught Junior High School Math and Science in Wall, SD; worked as a School Counselor and
Private Therapist. For ten years, Darla was the Membership/Sales Director for the Rapid City Chamber of Commerce and
for five years, she worked as a Development Officer for the Children’s Home Society of South Dakota in western South
Dakota. Her hobbies include riding her Harley Davison motorcycle and traveling with her husband to attend NASCAR
races.
Panelist: Dr. Valerie Hearns
Resident of Sioux Falls since 1996. Employed by the University of South Dakota Sanford School of Medicine, rank of
Associate Professor in the Department of Family Medicine, Clerkship Director Family Medicine, and Director of the OSCE
(Objective Structured Clinical Exam) Serves on numerous committees at the medical school and department level, active
in the USD Women in Medicine and Science group. Provided patient care at Sanford USD Physicians four days per week.
Outside activities/community involvement: past member of Girl Scouts Board of Directors, past commissioner of Sioux
Falls Human Relations committee, involved in Kids Church ministry at Sioux Falls First, past volunteer in various
capacities for various school functions at the elementary, middle, and high school levels.
Panelist: Paula Johnson
Paula was born and raised in Aberdeen and Sioux Falls, SD. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree in English, History
and Secondary Education and her Master’s Degree is in Procurement and Material Management. She was commissioned
a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army. Throughout Paula’s military career, she was accountable for people, millions of
dollars in equipment and programs, budgets, and federal contracts in addition to conducting training and enforcing laws
and policies. Among her assignments, she was stationed in Germany, Colorado, California and the Pentagon. Paula
retired as a Lieutenant Colonel with 20 years of active service.
Following the army, Paula was a logistics manager and senior buyer at Coors Brewing Company in Golden, CO. She
returned to Sioux Falls to care for her mother and also taught Logistics and Supply Chain Management at Colorado
Technical University and was an instructor for Business and Business Law at Southeast Technical Institute.
More recently, Paula has been a volunteer primarily at the VA and the Banquet. She is also a member of the Disabled
American veterans (DAV), Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR), South Dakota Rosemaling Association (SDRA)
and an advocate for the military and Veterans.
Panelist: Nilofar Meyer
Nilofar Meyer is the director of Equal Opportunity and Equal Employment Opportunity (EO/EEO) for the 114th Fighter
Wing, Sioux Falls, SD. This position requires her to provide senior leadership with awareness and education on diversity,
human relations, and status/shifts in demographics. The position also provides EO/EEO health and welfare for service
members, and addresses tough issues related to protected categories.
In her everyday life/civilian career, she thrives in being a transformational leader. Her position as a clinical operations
manager of LivingWell@Home, with Good Samaritan Society, allows for servant leadership and innovative ways of using
technology to assist the ever growing senior population and those with chronic illnesses.
Nilofar completed her Master’s Degree in Business Administration, in 2013, from the Colorado Technical University. She
obtained her Bachelor Degree in Biology (2000) from the South Dakota State University.
She entered the Air National Guard in July of 1998. She has served with the 114th Fighter Wing throughout her career in
two very distinct roles. She served as a medical technician for twelve years and is currently serving as EO/EEO officer.
She has deployed to various locations over-seas and in the United States to conduct over 25 temporary duty assignments.
The unique story of her life begins in Afghanistan and her family moving to the United States for a better life, for
achievement, and for being a positive catalyst in the community and nation.
“Best Practices in a Diverse Community”
(Meeting Room 10)
To identify “best practice” programs and services and to raise awareness about the talents and contributions of a diverse
community.
Champion: Stephanie Altamirano
Panelist: Sioux Empire Homeless Coalition—Melanie Bliss
Melanie was born and raised in Sacramento, CA, graduated from the University of California-Berkeley and got her
master's degree from Temple University Philadelphia. She has lived in California, Washington, DC, New York City,
Seattle, Philadelphia, and River Falls before moving to South Dakota for economic development--one job in the world for
her husband.
Melanie has lived in Sioux Falls for 28 years. Melanie has been the Coordinator of the Sioux Empire Homeless Coalition
for 13 years. The Mission of the Coalition is to educate the public about the complexities of poverty and homelessness, to
advocate regionally for a greater stock of affordable housing for residents without homes and takes seriously its role as
Community Commentator on the needs of our most fragile residents. She served on the Sioux Falls School Board, is
active in a variety of Community Organizations, both local and national, including the League of Women Voters, and has
been appointed to the South Dakota State Advisory Committee of the United States Civil Rights Commission.
Melanie loves Sioux Falls, classical music, Sudoku, historical restorations, and collects: teacups, travel books and
mahogany hutches. Melanie loves to travel: Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Israel, Palestine, Egypt, China, Thailand, Ecuador,
Mexico, the former Yugoslavia, Hungary, Greece, Austria and western Europe, and Machu Picchu and the Jungle of Peru
and soon to the Hermitage Art Museum in St. Petersburg, Russia and to India and Nepal .
Panelist: Disability Issues - Vicki Kerkvliet
Vicki is the Director of Independent Living Services at Independent Living Choices in Sioux Falls. She has been in this
position for eight years. Vicki has a B.A. in Religion with a minor in Psychology. She has worked in the field of disabilities
for 22 years. Vicki was born with the disease Osteogenesis Imperfecta (OI) and uses a wheelchair for mobility. She
currently serves on the Sioux Empire United Way’s Disability Impact Team. Vicki was Ms. Wheelchair South Dakota in
1998. She also received the Governor’s Award for Outstanding Employee with a Disability in 2000. Vicki enjoys playing
flute, traveling, swimming, and spending time with her family.
Panelist: Multi-Cultural Center –Christy Nicolaisen
Christy Nicolaisen is the Executive Director of the Multi-Cultural Center of Sioux Falls. She graduated from Buena Vista
University with a triple major. In her undergraduate career, she studied extensively in Mexico. Christy was a Board of
Immigration Appeals Accredited Representative with fourteen years of experience representing clients in the areas of
family based and refugee immigration. Christy has more than sixteen years of non-profit management experience. She
has over 27 years of experience working within the immigrant and refugee communities. Christy was the Director of the
Foundation Against Homelessness for four years. In addition, Christy taught ESL, GED, Citizenship and Credit English to
ELL students at Western Iowa Tech Community College for over 14 years.
She was nominated for the Sioux Falls Humanitarian Award 2011. Nicolaisen has won several awards helping the
immigrant communities such as “Friend of the Latino Community Award” in 2007, “Bank of America Spirit Celebration
Award” in 2007, and “Outstanding Community Organization Award - La Casa Latina” State Award in 2005. Nicolaisen won
“40 Leaders Under 40” recognition in 2001 and the “Young Woman of Excellence” Award in 2002.
Panelist: Sioux Falls Diversity Council/ IMPRINT Program--Dr. Daniel Obaka
Dr. Obaka is the President and founder of the Global Integrated Education Volunteers Association (GIEVA), Inc.,
Volunteer Director and Secretary of the Sioux Falls Diversity Council (SFDC), Inc., Secretary and Senior Editor of the
Global Voice. He has a PhD in Library and Information Science and decided to take on another doctoral journey in
Organizational Management and Leadership in order to experience the effect of lifelong learning. Currently guiding his
nonprofit organization, his areas of research involve modeling a leadership framework that can effectively navigate
through low-trust cultures to create values in the evolving cross-boundaries organizational integrations.
Dr. Obaka is currently developing Immigrant Professional Integration programs to create a platform for harnessing the
immigrant professional talents into the community workforce. He works with the US Embassy in Nigeria assisting young
people planning to study in the United States navigating the admission process. He has a passion for reading, especially
relating to the world of education, science, technology, religion, and world affairs. Although not a political activist, he loves
politics and contributes to national databases on issues affecting human development. He also writes for professional
journals and magazines.
Daniel has a passion to inspire young people of the world to know that education is very central and critical to becoming a
part of the solution to the many challenges of our evolving global society.
Panelist: Tracy Vik, Sioux Falls School District (Principal, Spanish Immersion Program)
Tracy is the principal of the K-5 Spanish Immersion Program in Sioux Falls, Previously, she was an assistant principal at
Edison Middle School for four years, and the staff development coordinator for the Sioux Falls School District for six years
where she provided a variety of training opportunities for all employee groups within the District, including specific training
on diversity and the impact of poverty on our schools.
She worked for the SD Department of Education in the Office of Technology, providing professional development to
educators in the areas of distance teaching and learning as well as technology integration in education. She taught
Special Education at the middle and high schools levels in Douglas, WY.
Tracy received her BA in Elementary and Special Education from Black Hills State University, her ME in Educational
Technology from Lesley University and her Specialist’s degree in Educational Administration from USD. She is currently
writing her dissertation to complete her doctoral degree through USD.
She has done extensive research in the area of poverty and its impact on schools and communities. She spent a week of
training with researcher/author Dr. Ruby Payne. Tracy provided resources to schools and community members on how to
provide social and emotional supports to people from a background of poverty to better assist them in experiencing
success in school and the work place.
Panelist: Deb Worth, Home Liaison Refugee & Immigrant Program at LSS
Deb Worth is the Associate Director of the Lutheran Social Services of South Dakota Center for New Americans in Sioux
Falls, SD. Ms. Worth has worked at the Center for New Americans office since 2001. She supervises the Matching Grant
Program, the Immigration Program, the Volunteer Program, the Performance Quality Improvement Team, the Services to
the Elderly Program, the Community Orientation and Pre-Employment Program and the sub-office in Huron, SD. Deb
received a BA from the University of Waterloo, Ontario, Canada.
Lunch: 11:45 am - 12:45 pm (Ballroom A)
“Immigration 101: An overview of U. S. Immigration System in the
Light of Core National Human Rights, and Faith Based Values”
An overview of the U. S. immigration system in the light of: Core national, human rights, and faith based values, the
problems of our immigration system and the weakness of an enforcement based approach. Also, the importance of
immigrants for our economy and the need for change
Introduction by: Rev. Jeanette Clark
Presenter: Rev. John Guttermann
John is a Covenant Minister at the United Church of Christ in New Brighton, MN. He has served the Minnesota
Conference United Church of Christ in a variety of capacities and is now a member of the Conference Immigration Team.
John has a BAS (Science and Physical Education) and an MA and M.Div. from United Theological Seminary. He is The
Advocates for Human Rights Volunteer Liaison to Faith Communities and has worked as a legislative policy advocate on
immigration issues. In 2012, John received The Advocates’ Volunteer Recognition Award. At General Synod 29, the
United Church of Christ Justice and Witness Ministries, recognized John with the 2013 Justice Leadership Award. He is
the founding leader for the Conversation with Friends program that visits immigrants detained by Immigration and
Customs Enforcement (ICE).
He is an ardent environmentalist, hiker-trekker, bicyclist, and former karate teacher. In the fall of 2011, John trekked as
part of a group to Mt. Everest base camp in Nepal, summited Mt. Kilimanjaro with another group on September 14, 2013
and hiked the Inca Trail to Machu Picchu. John has a special interest in and commitment to interfaith work.
Session Two: 12:45 pm – 2:15 pm
“Bullying in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 3)
Presenter: Melinda Olson
(See Session One Description)
“These Folks Can’t Be American - Racial, Ethnic and Religious Profiling of Immigrant
Communities”
(Meeting Room 6)
Immigrant Criminalization depends on profiling. Through films and conversation learn about what profiling is, its effects,
effects on immigrant communities, and the damage that profiling does to community policing.
Champion: Rev Jeanette Clark
Presenter: Rev. John Guttermann(See Lunch description)
“Mental Health Issues in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 7)
Presenter: Dr. Rajesh Singh
(See Session One description)
“Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA)”
(Meeting Room 8)
Plays for Living (PFL) uses interactive drama and theatre techniques to help people at all levels of society explore and
confront sensitive contemporary issues. PFL’s live dramas and facilitated dialogues allow people to ask and discuss
questions about the challenging life situations that impact them. PFL’s mission is to use drama as a tool for positive social
change.
Champion: Sue Siemonsma
Presenter: Sara Crosby
Sara Crosby, MSW, CSW-PIP, is the Founder/Lead Facilitator for DAPA Plays for Living. Sara received her BFA from
Stephens College in Theatre in 1976 and enjoyed a varied acting career based out of New York City. Her roles brought
her to Off Broadway, television and film as well as regional theaters. Most notably Ms. Crosby starred in Agatha Christie’s
The Mousetrap for the Barter Theatre at George Mason University opposite Kevin Spacey and off-Broadway at the Cherry
Lane Theatre as Wilhelmina in The Passion of Dracula. On television she appeared on All My Children. In 1984 Sara left
NYC for Chicago where she began the Graduate Social Work program at Loyola University of Chicago. Since graduating
in 1986, Sara has worked as a psychotherapist with individuals, couples and groups in the Chicago area and Madison,
Wisconsin. She has given many workshops on several issues including, women’s issues, prejudice and discrimination,
and suicide prevention to name a few. In 2001, Sara co-founded The Dakota Academy of Performing Arts (DAPA) and
later DiverseCity. Presently she is the lead facilitator and a director for DAPA at the Pavilion Plays for Living Theatre
Company. Sara also sits on the Board of Directors for the Sioux Falls Area Community Foundation and works in the field
of Social Justice.
“Youth Perspectives on Diversity and Overcoming Adversity”
(Meeting Room 9)
This workshop provides testimonials of youth/young adults of diverse backgrounds who have overcome adversity in their
lives. Each panelist will share life circumstances, inspirational leaders and mentors, experiences and circumstances that
led to becoming productive community members and inspirational young leaders.
Champion: Moses Tut
Panelist: Alek Bol
Alek is a member of the Southern Sudanese Youth Association (SSYA) who’s aim is to empower South Sudanese youth
to stay in school and receive their diplomas. In addition, SSYA is also working to contribute to the education back in South
Sudan. Alek is an Economics major and plans on applying to medical school in the near future. In her role as a Youth
leader, she plans to give special attention to the almost two million women who are more likely to die in childbirth before
completing primary school.
Panelist: Nikko McFadden
Born into a military family, Nikko has lived in multiple states and overseas as a child. When he was the age of 8, due to a
divorce of his parents, a major shift in his upbringing happened. After his mother took custody, he quickly became familiar
with the wrong end of the law. Kicked out of his mother’s house at the age of 16, his lifestyle was as a full time criminal
with trying to get to his next meal and find somewhere to sleep. He went in and out of juvenile hall numerous times before
he turned age 18.
Homeless at 17, and turning 18 in August of 2007, he realized the trouble was more severe in punishment. In October of
2007, his home was raided and 7 felony charges were placed on him. Six months later, he was sentenced to an 8-year
state penitentiary bid. He served the mandatory 2 and one-half years and was paroled in May of 2010.
This was the point in his life where he decided to reevaluate his priorities. Raised by his mother, he was the oldest of his
siblings, and becoming a man was a journey made alone. He has made family and music his main priorities. With an
independent EP and a popular DJ out of DC hosted mixtape, he’s released a full length LP and is in the process of writing
the sophomore follow up.
Real Life Music Volume 1: “Reflections of an Underdog” is a 15 track LP, with a mixture of thoughtful, creative, and
authentic lyrics over original instrumentals. The album was released at a SOLD OUT event at a 350 person capacity
venue. He has multiple performances with National artists, in and out of South Dakota and is known for charismatic stage
presence.
Nikko has had poetry published in newspapers, and an article in the statewide “605 Magazine”. He has music videos on
YouTube, “Got U like”, “Modern Day Blues”, and “Still Me”. He also has videos published of freestyles and performances
and has received a sponsorship from an energy drink company.
While his past is a huge facet for his music, he doesn’t let it weigh him down. He’s been involved with multiple nonprofit
fund-raisers and also worked hand-in-hand with troubled children since his release and is passionate about seeing a
change. This is a one man/artist that constantly reminds others that you can come from the gutters and make a positive
impact on others with similar struggles.
Panelist: John Buay Tut
John Buay Tut, more commonly known as Buay, is a South Sudanese born, American raised dual citizen. Buay and his
family have lived a nomadic life style since resettlement to the United States from worn-torn South Sudan under refugee
asylum. He has lived in Dallas, TX, and six different towns in Minnesota before moving to Storm Lake. Buay graduated
from St. Olaf College with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Political Science and concentration in Management Studies.
While at St. Olaf College, he had the privilege of studying abroad and visiting South Africa, Namibia, South Sudan,
Ethiopia, and Norway. His cross-cultural background and experiences have instilled in him a passion for human and civil
rights issues, education, and international and domestic travel. A summer spent as a Phillip G. Hubbard Pre-Law fellow at
the University of Iowa’s College of Law, and a summer as a Peace scholar with the Alfred Nobel Peace Prize forum at the
International Summer School in Oslo, Norway, have fueled his passion and aspirations for a just and equitable world.
While at St. Olaf College, he was a dual sport athlete on the St. Olaf football and track team. In his senior track and field
season, he helped the St. Olaf men’s 4X400 hundred meter relay team go undefeated, set a new school record, and win
two conference championships. He currently works as a college coach at Augsburg College through College Possible, a
college access program run out of St. Paul. Buay is a colleague and ally to all in the pursuit of a peaceful, just and
equitable world.
Panelist: Alek Warwein
Alek Warwien was born in Egypt, raised in Rochester, MN and originally from South Sudan. She is the founder of the
South Sudanese Youth Association, a non-profit organization working to better the South Sudanese youth of America. Her
nonprofit organization was founded in 2011 and has hosted four annual youth conferences. Alek is a student at Winona
State University and will be receiving her Bachelor’s in Business Administration and Human Resource Management in the
Spring 2015. She plans on continuing her education and getting her Master’s degree in Urban Planning. Alek has a
special interest in motivational speaking and she believes the road to success is trying. She has made it her personal goal
to leave this world a better place than how she found it.
“Native American Culture”
(Meeting Room 10)
Provide participants with a historical picture of the Native American Culture and create opportunities for learning and an
understanding of Native American practices, traditions and values.
Champion: Melissa Buffalo
Panelist: Stephanie Altamirano
Stephanie Bolman-Altamirano is of Lakota/Hidatsa descent and is an enrolled member of the Kul Wicasa Oyate, otherwise
known as the Lower Brule Sioux Tribe. A native South Dakotan, Stephanie now resides in Sioux Falls, SD.
Stephanie is the Chief Executive Officer of Cross Cultural Solutions. Cross Cultural Solutions focuses on leveraging
diversity to improve business performance and provide innovative solutions to challenging issues within the community.
Stephanie holds a Bachelor degree in Biology from Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell, SD. She went on to complete
training in Cytotechnology from the University of North Dakota School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Stephanie is
certified by the American Society of Clinical Pathology. She was selected twice to receive research fellowships from
Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA. Stephanie went on to receive her second Bachelor of Sciences degree in Nursing
from South Dakota State University and has completed graduate education in the area of Administrative Studies.
Stephanie is an active member and past officer of the Rosa Parks Elementary Parent Teacher Association. She is also
co-chair of the Sioux Falls School District Title VII Indian Education Parent Committee. Stephanie’s other community
leadership roles include serving as a board member on the Inter-Tribal Cultural Alliance and the Sioux Falls Diversity
Council. Stephanie is also a founding member of the Great Plains Minority Chamber of Commerce. Stephanie has been
appointed by the Mayor to serve on the Multicultural Center Board of Directors.
Stephanie, her husband Enis Altamirano, & their daughter Sequoia, enjoy time with family, the outdoors & traveling.
Panelist: Joe Circle Bear
Joe is an enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe. He has been an educator of Native American Culture and
Language for over 20 years. English is Joe’s second language; he grew up speaking his native language. He spent many
years living on the Pine Ridge Reservation.
Panelist: George Eagleman
Dr. George Eagleman, PhD, LAC is a substance abuse counselor/mental health therapist and is employed with Keystone
Treatment Center in Canton, SD. He works primarily with Native American clients. George admits being an alcoholic and
has been in recovery from it for the past thirty years. He was married to his former spouse for twenty five years prior to
succumbing to alcohol in 1997. He has three adult children from this union and practices their culture with their father. He
has been married to his wife now for twenty five years with one adult child. George is a Native American from Rosebud,
SD who is fluent in his language and practices all aspects of his culture. He also teaches Lakota language, Native
American studies and Sociology at Kilian Community College in Sioux Falls, SD. He has done culture sensitive training
not only for law enforcement officers but also organizations that serve Native American Indian clients. He is a Vietnam
veteran and enjoys helping those that are in need and has extensive experience in giving presentations in many topics to
include addiction, suicide, historical trauma and Native American culture. George was a nominee for the 2013
Humanitarian Award of Sioux Falls, SD.
Panelist: Teri St. Pierre
She is currently an employee at the Sioux Falls VA Health Care system and is the Minority Veterans Program Coordinator.
Teri recently moved from Lawrence, KS where she worked as a paralegal for two years and attended Haskell Indian
Nations University. She is originally from the Wagner, SD area. She is an enrolled member of the Yankton Sioux Tribe.
She also has ties to the Cheyenne River Sioux. Teri has an Associate Degree in American Indian Studies from Haskell
Indian Nations University.
Session Three: 2:30 pm – 4:00 pm
“Welcoming Our Transgender Family and Friends: Opening the Door”
(Meeting Room 3)
Presenter: Terri Carlson
(See Session One description)
“Native American Culture”
(Meeting Room 6)
Panel: Stephanie Altamirano, Joe Circle Bear, Teri St. Pierre & George Eagleman
(See Session Two for description)
“Understanding the Crisis in South Sudan”
(Meeting Room 7)
To provide participants with the historical facts and a discussion on the genesis of South Sudan and
the fallout from this conflict.
Champion: Moses Tut
Panelist: Dr. Isaac Gang, PhD
Dr. Isaac Gang is an Assistant Professor of Computer Science & Engineering at the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor’s
College of Sciences (UMHB), department of Computer Science & Engineering (CSE). He joined the UMHB CSE faculty in
the fall of 2011 from the University of Southern Mississippi (USM) where he taught as an Adjunct Professor of Computer
Science at the USM’s School of Computing.
Dr. Gang earned an AA degree in Computer Science from Hinds Community College in 2000, BA in History from USM in
2004, a BS in Computer Science from USM in 2008 and Doctor of Philosophy in Computational Science from USM in
2010.
Dr. Gang is the founding member of Alliance of South Sudanese in Diaspora (ASSD), Coalition of Advocates for South
Sudan (CASS), and Jonglei Peace Initiative-North America. He is also the Secretary General of Leadership Institute of
New Sudan (LIONS). He helped conduct the LIONS Leadership training course in Juba and part of the teaching faculty of
the course attended by 27 South Sudanese citizens both at home and Diaspora.
He has an extensive background in peace and leadership training with the Institute of Sustainable Peace (ISP) based in
Houston, TX. He has attended and facilitated peace and leadership training for over four years with ISP. Dr. Gang has
volunteered for numerous organizations and lobbied for many causes, especially human right issues affecting his first
home (South Sudan). He is involved with the Sudanese Peoples’ Liberation Movement (SPLM); he is currently involved
with Jonglei Peace Initiative – North America (JPINA) to facilitate sustainable peace through social and economic
development among conflicting communities in South Sudan’s Jonglei state. He is currently the International Affairs
Director of ASSD, Executive member of CAS, and the Executive Secretary of Jonglei Peace Initiative- North America.
Panelist: Miyong Koun
In 2006, Miyong Kuon was appointed as an Assistance Director of Communication and Press at the Office of the former
Vice President of the Republic of South Sudan, Dr. Riek Machar Teny.
A journalist by profession, Kuon was also a host of a political show called “ Meet the Press-Juba” which aired on South
Sudan TV, weekly from 2009 to 2012. He interviewed numerous leaders including formed Sudan Prime Minister, former
US Secretary of State, Collin Powell and many more.
One of his highest regarded reports happened when the Lou Nuer and Murley youth clashed in December 2012. He was
embedded with Dr. Machar when they flew to Li-Kuangole and Pibor to stop the clashes.
When South Sudan crisis occurred in December, 2013, He was among the first Sudanese People’s Liberation Movement
(SPLM) delegations that were sent to Ethiopia as the Intergovernmental Authority for Development (IGAD) had the first
talks between the SPLM and the South Sudan government.
In August, 2014, Chairman of the SPLM and the Commander in Chief of the Sudanese People’s Liberation Army (SPLA),
Dr. Riek Machar, appointed Mr. Miyong Kuon the SPLM representative to the United Nations.
Panelist: Honorable Reath Muoch Tong
Honorable Reath Muoch Tang was born in a small town of Keach Nanay of Nasir county Upper Nile state. He received his
undergraduate degree at the Juba University College. He received a degree in electrical engineering.
He became a member of the National Legislative Assembly in the Republic of South Sudan after the country got its
independence in 2011. As a member of the Parliament, Honorable Reath became chairperson of the sub-committee for
Energy and Mining in the national Legislative Assembly of the Republic of South Sudan. He is the chairperson of Upper
Nile State SPLM Vaucus in the National Legislative Assembly. He is the Chairperson of South Sudan Youth Forum for
Referendum at Upper Nile State from 2010 to 2011. Reath worked as a Deputy Director for distribution and sales in 2008
to 2011 at Southern Sudan Electricity Corporation before becoming a member of Parliament. He was President of South
Sudan Student Association at the University of Juba from 2006 to 2007 and President for Sudan Nazarene Youth
International 2006 to 2008 at the Church of Nazarene.
“Did I Really Say That? A Look at Unconscious Bias In the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 8)
Presenters: Mark Blackburn and Diane Maeschen
(See Session One description)
“Women Empowerment”
(Meeting Room 9)
Panel: Julie Ashworth, Darla Crown, Dr. Valerie Hearns,
Paula Johnson and Nilofar Meyer
(See Session One for description)
“Accommodations – Sacred Spaces, Safe Places in the Workplace”
(Meeting Room 10)
Participants will be discussing the different religious practices and accommodations that need to be provided in the
workplace for religious accommodations.
Champion: Rev Henry N. Scere, II
Henry Scere II is a Pastor and an Addiction Counselor at Carroll Institute. He serves as the Senior Pastor of the
Multicultural Community Church (MCC) in Sioux Falls. He also serves on the Human Relation Commission of the City of
Sioux Falls, Board member of Ground Works and Sioux Falls Diversity Council. He is the author of Biblical Alphabet for
Chemical Dependency Counseling. He is a graduate of Central Baptist Theological Seminary in Plymouth, MN and Sioux
Falls Seminary in Sioux Falls, SD., where he obtained his Master of Arts in Theological Studies with concentration in
Biblical Counseling (MATS) and Master of Divinity with specialization in Pastoral Care and Counseling (M. Div.)
respectively. He is presently working on his third Master in Addiction Studies at USD. Rev. Scere is originally from Liberia,
West Africa, and has lived in Sioux Falls for almost 8 years.
Buddhism & Judaism--Panelist: Jennifer Wagner
Jennifer Wagner, Associate Warden, SD Department of Corrections, graduated from the University of Minnesota in 2000
with a BA degree in Anthropology and World religion and a minor in Jewish Studies, Summa Cum Laude and Phi Beta
Kappa. She has been employed at the South Dakota State Penitentiary since 2002. One of her main responsibilities is the
supervision of religious and cultural programming for adult corrections. She regularly presents to various organizations on
cultural diversity and spiritual diversity. Jennifer is an active member of the Jewish community in Sioux Falls.
Jennifer’s responsibilities have included scheduling and coordinating religious and cultural activities for eight different
religious groups at Sioux Falls’ facilities as well as advisor to the Cultural Activity Coordinators at the other SD Department
of Corrections facilities. Jennifer has worked closely with the Tribal Liaisons and Spiritual Leaders from each of the
reservations, and is a consistent presence on the reservations that are home to almost 30% of the male prison population.
Christian--Panelist: Dr. Warren Hoffman
Dr. Hoffman, Pastor at First Baptist Church, Sioux Falls, SD, became head of staff there in September, 2013. Having
served congregations in Calgary, AB, New Your City, Vancouver, BC, Alpena, MI, and St. Louis, MO, Warren brings 34
years of experience to his ministry tasks.
Warren received his education at USD, North American Baptist Seminary, Princeton Theological Seminary and received
his PhD from Southern Baptist Theological Seminary in Preaching and Worship.
Native American--Panelist: Darryl Knight Schafer
Darryl Knight Schafer is currently the Cultural Diversity Liaison for Sanford One Care. Darryl earned a BS in Sociology
from SDSU, MS in Human Services, core specialization in mental health from Cappella University and is currently working
in his Ph.D. in Addiction Psychology. Darryl is a licensed addiction counselor (LAC) in the state of South Dakota, chronic
care professional (CCP) and a Registered, Health Coach -1 (RHC-1). As a Substance Abuse counselor he specializes in
Native American substance treatment practices. His passion currently has him working as Cultural Coordinator for
Volunteers of America part time; he previously worked with McCrossan Boys Ranch as their American Indian Cultural
Advisory. Darryl has given Native American cultural presentations for South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD, Kilian
Community College, Sioux Falls, SD, Sioux Falls Veterans Hospital, Sioux Falls, SD, Children’s Home Society, Sioux
Falls, SD, Sanford Health Sioux Falls, SD and Balboa Naval Hospital, San Diego California. He is currently working an
indigenousness stress model as a part of his Ph.D. program.
His presentations include: Cultural Mindfulness; Historical Trauma; Indigenous Stress Model; and Barriers to Care
He provided classroom instruction in Human Services and Addiction Studies with an emphasis in Diversity and Special
Topics: Native American at Kilian Community College. As a presenter of Native American Curriculum for the Division of
Alcohol and Drugs in South Dakota he provided instruction and acted as a trainer.
Hinduism--Panelist: Dr. Chandradhar Dwivedi
Chandradhar Dwivedi is a Distinguished Professor and head Emeritus for the Department of Pharmaceutical Services,
College of Pharmacy, SDSU. BS, MSc, and PhD from Lucknow University, India and Post-Doctoral from Vanderbilt
University in Nashville, TN.
He was Teacher of the Year in 2000. He serves as an expert witness in cases throughout South Dakota and provided
guest lectures on Hinduism in the World Religion course at SDSU once each semester since 1990 and at Mount Marty
College (1997-1998). Chandradhar provides guest lectures at Brookings High School once each semester since 1994 and
speaks to classes in Brookings Elementary and Middle School on topics related to India and Hinduism.
Chandradhar appears as a guest on Sioux Falls television stations on topics related to drug development, Hinduism, and
India. He has organized cultural activities related to India at the state level and served as chairperson of India Association
of Sioux Land (1998-1999).
He also serves as Hindu priest. Chandradhar performs various religious services, including weddings in South Dakota and
other states. Serves as member of Brookings Human Right Committee (2009-present) Interfaith Dialog, member of
Steering Committee (2010-present) Chairperson, South Dakota World Affairs Council (2014).
Muslim--Panelist: Taneeza Islam
Taneeza Islam is a second generation American-Muslim born and raised in Michigan. She is an attorney and served for
four years as the Civil Rights Director of the nonprofit, CAIR-MN--Council on American Islam Relations-MN Chapter. With
a Master's degree in Intercultural Relations, she has developed unique trainings on educating others on Islam and
Muslims and has conducted diversity trainings for Fortune 500 companies and paneled several discussions on Islam,
religious accommodation, and civil rights issues involving Muslims and immigrants. She was recognized for her efforts on
education and social justice by the Saint Paul Foundation's Facing Race Ambassador Award, Honorable Mention in
2012. She is currently a Bush Leadership Fellow, through the Bush Foundation, working to create more access to legal
services for low-income residents of South Dakota. Taneeza has her own immigration law practice based out of Sioux
Falls, SD.
Session 4: Endnote 4:00 pm – 4:15 pm
“Next Steps-- Economic Diversity/Calling up the Leader in Each of Us!”
Champion: Pam Bollinger
Presenter: Kim Bartling
Kim Bartling claims she is, “just a good ole’ girl” from South Dakota. As much as that is true, she has also traveled the
world gathering education, experience and stories.
From New York to South Dakota, Kim has directed over 100 theatrical productions. Her passion as a theatre professor and
director is theatre of social change. Kim has written and directed on subjects such as: the voices of pediatric patients with
life threatening illnesses; body image disorder; world hunger; the conflict in Darfur; sexual harassment; domestic abuse;
capital punishment; manipulation of gender roles; and living with HIV and Aids. Gandhi’s, “Be the change you want to see
in the world” serves as her inspirational mantra.
After 26 years, Kim left academia to dedicate herself more deliberately to service work. Specifically, she works with
children – and their families - at risk in Belize, Central America. Kim has organized and led numerous groups on domestic
and international service trips. In her own community, she serves on numerous non-profit boards. Kim’s owns Creative
Consulting which offers motivational speaking and executive communication coaching.
As an entrepreneur, Kim owns Meso, a co-working business located in downtown Sioux Falls. She also operates online
vintage stores, directs children’s theatre camps, and owns and directs Ephemeral Productions, a theatre company that
celebrates the role of women on and behind the stage. She currently is working on 2 books—a children’s e-book entitled
“Melody Off-Key” and “The Theory of Dakotativity”- musings and lessons of growing up Dakota.
4:15 pm—4:30 pm
Complete Evaluations, Door Prizes Awarded*
& Transition to Ribbon Cutting & Leadership Mixer
(Sheraton Conference Center)
*Must be present to win
4:30 pm—4:45 pm
Chamber of Commerce Ribbon Cutting for the
Sioux Falls Diversity Council
(Sheraton Conference Center)
4:45 pm—6:00 pm Leadership Mixer & Social Gathering—
(Sheraton Conference Center)
Door Prizes awarded (must be present to win). Mixer includes Hors d’oeuvres, refreshments & Brief
Program:
“Leadership Priorities –Embrace Diversity and Promote Inclusion”
(Sheraton Conference Center)
Introduction by: Maddie Gutierrez
Juan Bonilla, President--Sioux Falls Diversity Council
Juan was born and raised on the Caribbean island of Puerto Rico. After high school he attended the University of Puerto
Rico and received a B.B.A. in Marketing. After college Juan used his marketing skills both in Puerto Rico and the
Dominican Republic. He worked in the media industry including, advertising, newspapers, radio and television.
After working in the media industry, Juan became involved with projects concerning tourism for the governments of Puerto
Rico, and the Dominican Republic. He headed a project that opened a path where you can take your own vehicle from a
U.S. Territory (Puerto Rico) to a foreign country (the Dominican Republic), moving 2,500 passengers, 750 vehicles and 45
cargo containers, per day, between both countries.
Later that year, Mr. Bonilla moved to Luverne, Minnesota and began working in Sioux Falls, SD. Here he found the Latino
Community without a media source to inform, educate and help integrate Latinos into the Sioux Falls community. In 2007,
Juan started the first bilingual magazine in three states, “ La Voz Hispana” magazine, written in Spanish & English to
inform the Latino and other diverse communities about topics such as finance, education, health care and current events.
In 2010, Juan formed “ La Voz Hispana” newspaper, the first bi-lingual newspaper in the region, covering three states.
Later that year, with over 2,000 plus households per week viewing, he formed “ La Voz Hispana” television, the first bilingual television show in the Midwest and has just recently reached Episode 101. In 2012, Juan started the first and only
Radio Show for Latinos in the Midwest—“La Voz Radio Show”, on 94.5 FM.
Juan has actively been involved in the banking industry while in South Dakota working for Household Finance, Wells
Fargo and Home Federal. He is currently a Financial Crime Specialist at Wells Fargo on the Financial Crime Division.
In 2009, Juan was nominated for the first time to the Sioux Falls Humanitarian of the Year Award. In 2012 he was awarded
the Diversity Champion of Sioux Falls and the Diversity Champion by Wells Fargo, in Sioux Falls; the state of South
Dakota, and Diversity Champion for Wells Fargo’s throughout the Unites States. He is currently President of the Spanish
Speaking Association of Sioux Falls, Chairman of the Soccer and Scouting of the Boy Scouts of America, President Sioux
Falls Diversity Council, former Vice President of the Diversity Kiwanis, board member of the American Cancer Society Midwest Division, Board Member of Ground Works, and Honorary Member of the Black Hills Minority Chamber of
Commerce. Juan is also the first Latino to serve on the Board of Directors of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce,
in 105 years.
Evan Nolte--President of the SF Chamber of Commerce
Evan Nolte is President and Chief Executive Officer of the Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce. The Sioux Falls Area
Chamber of Commerce serves more than 2,200 members and a metropolitan area with an estimated population of
242,000 people, with a regional area of approximately 650,000 people located in eastern South Dakota, northwestern
Iowa, southwestern Minnesota and northeastern Nebraska.
Nolte joined the Sioux Falls Chamber staff in 1979 as its Executive Vice President. In 1992, he was appointed President
and CEO. Prior to coming to Sioux Falls, Nolte served as Executive Vice President of chamber of commerce and
economic development organizations in Mason City, Iowa; St. Joseph, Mo.; Yankton, S.D.; and Nebraska City, Neb.
His current community and professional involvements include serving as a: member of the Forward Sioux Falls 2011-2016
Joint Venture Management Committee, South Dakota Economic Development Council and American Chamber of
Commerce Executives (ACCE); he currently is a board member of the Sioux Empire Housing Partnership, the South
Dakota Technology Business Center, the Southeast Technical Institute Foundation and the Downtown Sioux Falls
Development Committee.
In 1997, Nolte was named Business Citizen of the Year by the Sioux Falls Sales and Marketing Executives (SMEI)
organization. In 2013, he received an Alumni Achievement Award from Augustana College for his leadership in community
issues. He and his wife, Lesley, have four sons. Nolte attended Iowa State University and graduated from Augustana
College (Sioux Falls) with a bachelor’s of science degree in political science and business administration.
General Timothy A. Reisch--Adjutant General for South Dakota
(See Keynote Speaker for description)