30 Under 30
Spotlight on Young Alumni
The University of South Dakota's 30 Under 30 class reflects what the Coyote community has known for generations: a USD education creates leaders who make an impact. Our academic programs continues to shape graduates who excel personally, professionally and within their communities.
This class demonstrates how USD continues to adapt, innovate and rise to meet the needs of a changing world and the students who will define it. Across industries and communities, USD alumni are using their talents, integrity and drive to create positive change. A USD education prepares students not only for professional success but for a life of leadership, service and lasting contribution.
In the categories of civic trailblazers, health and science innovators, industry standouts, change igniters and commerce catalysts, our alumni are living the Coyote way every day.
We asked these Yotes to share who their biggest USD influence has been and how that person made an impact on their journey. Take a look at their answers below!
Civic Trailblazers
Recognized for their leadership in civic life, these alumni are shaping communities through impactful service and steadfast advocacy.
Amber L. Cook ‘23
Attorney
Pennington County State’s Attorney’s Office
Professor Tom Horton had the biggest impact on me during my time at the USD Law school. He gave me the encouragement to stay in law school and helped me feel comfortable in a predominantly white academic environment. He challenged me to believe I belonged and that my place there was earned. Though he is no longer with us, his impact is felt to this day.
Cate Davis '18, '21
Government Affairs Associate
Mickelson & Company
Tough but fair, my mentor Mary Pat Bierle held people to their potential and never lowered expectations for comfort. She taught that leadership is earned through kindness, integrity and relationships as much as vision and achievement. Mary Pat modeled how lifting others creates shared success and showed me that ambition does not have to come at the expense of a gentle, joy-filled life.
Chris Skunk '19, '21
3L, Law Student
University of South Dakota Knudson School of Law
Marshall Damgaard and Dr. Roche believed in me before I fully believed in myself. As an undergraduate, Professor Damgaard helped me realize that law school and leadership roles were attainable for me. Later, working as a graduate teaching assistant under Dr. Roche taught me that growth comes from showing up every day and striving to improve. Their mentorship continues to influence how I approach leadership, service and personal growth.
Erin Weightman '21
Attorney
Quinlivan & Hughes, P.A.
Dr. Rozum, Dr. Kelmelis, Dr. Hellwege, Dr. Card, Dr. Schorn and my advisor, Dr. Jepsen, provided the encouragement and support that transformed my interest in history, politics and public affairs into a genuine passion for the study of law. Together, they made my undergraduate experience exceptional. Not only did they help me succeed academically, but the lessons they taught continue to influence my professional development.
Grant Namminga '24
Law Enforcement
University of South Dakota Police Department
One of the most influential figures in my personal and professional development has been Assistant Chief Juston Sangster. As my supervisor during my time as a student and now as a colleague with the University Police Department, he has provided invaluable mentorship, guidance and support. His leadership and commitment to developing others have had a lasting impact on my career, helping shape the officer and person I am today.
Lucas Heitkamp '19, '21
Federal Relations Associate Director
Iowa State University
Dr. Molly Rozum’s South Dakota history course fundamentally changed how I understood the region, revealing a complex and often overlooked past of South Dakota. I also often think back to a lecture by Dr. Steve Bucklin that sparked a fascination with the complexities of U.S. foreign policy and reinforced the importance of understanding history. Together, they impressed upon me the value of continued reading and lifelong learning.
Renee Stellagher '19, '22
Attorney
South Dakota Attorney General
Professor Horton and Dr. Roche had the biggest impact on my during my time at USD.
Health & Science Innovators
From implementing AI technology to promoting public health, these Yotes are meeting these challenges with compassionate care and cutting-edge research.
Carson Zubke '21
Managing Consultant
Guidehouse
The moments that shaped me most are the ones that pushed me to think beyond simply finding the right answer. There were classes and programs that emphasized the importance of asking better questions and communicating ideas persuasively—pressure tested with leaders who invested their time to create an applied business experience.
Ellie Blue '26
Resident Physician
University of Nebraska Medical Center
One of the most meaningful experiences during medical school was organizing and co-leading a six-week cooking series for guests at the Bishop Dudley Hospitality House. Sharing meals and conversations outside of a clinical setting allowed me to connect with guests on a personal level and reminded me that meaningful relationships often begin long before a patient enters an exam room. This experience reminded me to stay grounded in empathy and compassion.
Emily Kokales '23, '25
Director of Executive Support
Avera McKennan Hospital & University Center
Matt Heard, a professor in the Health Services Administration program, had a profound impact on my time at USD. He instilled the core values of effective leadership and the dedication required to be a successful health care administrator. His real-world experience and storytelling provided insight into what my future career could look like. Through our collaboration on the Coyote Business Consulting project, he gave me the confidence to apply my knowledge in a practice setting.
Jamie Schweiss '23
Doctor of Physical Therapy
Pain and Movement Solutions
Dr. Leedom fostered my passion for neurologic rehabilitation and challenged me to think critically about improving the lives of individuals living with neurological conditions. Dr. Ladwig encouraged my growth as a clinician, researcher and lifelong learner. Dr. Katie Nour’s mentorship and clinical guidance had a lasting impact on my professional development. Together, these individuals inspired me to pursue excellence, remain curious and seek opportunities to make a difference in the lives of others.
Morgan Deaver '20, '24, '25
Director of Infant and Toddler Tribal Intervention
Lower Brule Community College
Dr. Kyle Brouwer, Dr. Terri Bellis, Dr. Aggie Kennedy and Dr. Monica Iverson all helped craft me into the professional I am today. Their passion for their fields was contagious and their drive admirable. Through their guidance and expertise, I felt prepared to embark on a career of well-rounded service. I am lucky to have learned from them as a student and honored to now call them colleagues.
Riley Ackerman '19, '22
Physician Assistant
Sanford Health & Monument Health
I had the privilege of being mentored by Jamie Turgeon-Drake during my undergraduate years, whose guidance and support were instrumental in helping me achieve my goals. In graduate school, Director Wade Nilson played a significant role in my development, encouraging me to challenge myself and always strive for excellence. Other mentors include Dr. Van Dyne, Dr. Dykstra, Dr. Griffith, Dr. Fromm, Dr. Mortimer, Robert Leonard, Jason Koch, Randy Ramiscal, Miranda Winters and Tessa Olsen, among others.
Industry Standouts
Early in their careers, these Coyotes are making their mark in their industries through exceptional personal and professional accomplishments.
DeValon Whitcomb ‘19
Executive Director
YMCA of Greater Omaha
Beyond the classroom and athletics, teammates, fraternity brothers, classmates and friends shaped my development, reinforcing accountability, resilience and servant leadership. My membership in Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. was transformative, reinforcing service, scholarship and leadership at multiple levels. Looking back, my greatest takeaway from USD was learning that success is built through community and that no one achieves their goals alone.
Eldon Warner-Soriano '19
Actor
DDO Chicago
There are so many wonderful staff at USD that have helped me pursue my career, but I would be remiss to not mention Dr. David Holdhusen, Dr. Tracelynn Gesteland and Dr. Brandon Hendrickson.
Ingrid Cho-Absher '21
Museum Curator
National Museum of the American Indian
Dr. Anthony Krus encouraged me and two classmates to create an independent museum studies course to complete our anthropology credits. I gained hands-on experience in the archeology lab, working with collections at the W.H. Over Museum and practicing object handling. His support pushed us to explore museum work and ultimately gave me the confidence to pursue my career.
Melissa Eberts ‘19
Enrollment Marketing & Engagement Manager
University of South Dakota
Two people who come to mind are Kenneth Green and Sarah Wittmuss. Sarah was exactly the kind of person I needed in my corner during college. She was fun, wise and honest in a way that grounded me. Ken recommended me for an internship at the Vermillion Area Chamber & Development Company, where I spent the first five years of my budding career after graduation. That opportunity taught me how powerful it can be when someone believes in you enough to open a door.
Morgan Matzen ‘19
Education Reporter
Argus Leader
One moment that had a big impact on me was when The Volante advisor Chuck Baldwin asked how I was doing with genuine care during a difficult freshman year. I also have to shout out Sara Lampert, Michelle Van Maanen and Janet Davidson for their support throughout my time at USD and for advising me on my undergraduate honors thesis and documentary.
Sydney Stevens ‘19
Chief Creative Officer
Miz Stevens Publishing LLC
I had the honor of serving as a graphic designer for the Coyote Crazies student organization. I was able to use my creativity to make various t-shirt designs, which the students received each semester. Seeing their excitement to wear my designs was a moment that made me proud as a graphic artist and proud to be a Yote with a lasting legacy.
Change Igniters
Powered by purpose, these young alumni harness their skills to bring equity to the communities they serve.
Abbie Wiebers ’18, ‘22
School Psychologist
Cornbelt Educational Cooperative
During my time at USD, many mentors impacted me, but Dr. Monica Iverson stands out. As an undergrad professor, she truly got me interested in special education and was able to give me different experiences as I admired the way she was able to connect with her students. Even today, I can mention Monica to other alumni, and we can agree on how fortunate we are to have someone like her leading the way.
Brett Hughes ‘20
6th-8th Grade English and Social Studies Teacher
Harrisburg East Middle School
Dr. Jing Williams and Dr. Clayton Lehmann both had a profound influence on me while at USD. Dr. Williams instilled values and principles in my teaching practices, including providing multiple perspectives and portraying history as a subjective and complicated process. Additionally, Dr. Lehmann strengthened my writing and critical thinking while teaching me to approach history as a historian.
Irene Arango Gómez ’20, ‘22
Community Care Coordinator and Adjunct Instructor
South Dakota State University, College of Pharmacy and Allied Health Professions
Ms. Jamie Turgeon provided academic guidance during a pivotal moment in my professional development, shaping how I engage in public health. She encouraged me to step outside my comfort zone, ask difficult questions and engage in conversations centered on equity. Her influence strengthened my confidence as a public health professional and reinforced the importance of elevating perspectives that challenge existing narratives, particularly in equity and community health discussions.
Katie Jacobs ’23, ‘25
High School Speech & Debate Teacher & Coach
Brookings School District
One person who had the greatest impact on me during my graduate work at USD was Theresa Skinner. Her dedication to supporting future educators and ensuring access to the tools needed for success deeply influenced my approach to teaching, leadership and mentorship. From my first day to the completion of my master’s program, Theresa was a constant mentor, and I wouldn’t be the teacher I am without her guidance.
Lauren Foxhoven ’20, ‘21
Career Success Center Manager
University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business
My internship with Jennifer Lemaster through the Beacom School of Business really sparked my interest in marketing and allowed me to work closely with the Beacom Career Success Senter. One project I worked on was building a website to highlight their services in an accessible manor. Looking back, that experience helped me build my skills and gave me early exposure to the kind of work I do daily.
Matthew Colbert ’19, ‘25
International Admissions Professional
University of South Dakota Gallagher International Center
Ilmira Dulyanova has been the most incredible mentor and supporter during my time at USD. Serving as both my Russian language instructor and graduate program advisor, Ilmira’s dedication to my success went far beyond the classroom. I am deeply grateful for her guidance and commitment to student success. She inspires me every day and reminds me that I too can support the next generation of passionate students.
Sydney Bitz ’21, ‘22
6-8 Reading Lab Teacher
Rapid City Area Schools
One of the most meaningful moments of my time at USD came during a philosophy class with Dr. Joe Tinguely. During a class discussion, I gave an impromptu summary of Billy Budd using stick figures on a whiteboard and a fading red Expo marker. Afterward, Dr. Tinguely handed me the marker and said, “That is way Sydney is going to make an excellent teacher.” I keep that marker in my classroom.
Commerce Catalysts
These independent leaders challenge traditional ways of doing business and revolutionize their industries.
Kenley Lamberty ‘22
Director of Political Strategy and Engagement
Dakota Credit Union Association
The most meaningful moment of my college experience was meeting my wife in Vermillion. She continues to have a tremendous impact on my life and success. I was also fortunate to learn from professors who challenged me to grow and think differently. Dr. Jepsen encouraged me to consider issues from multiple perspectives, a skill that has been extremely beneficial. My involvement with Delta Tau Delta was equally influential, providing lifelong friendships and valuable leadership development opportunities.
Monte Rysavy ’18, ‘19
Principal Examiner
National Credit Union Administration (NCUA)
Phi Delta Theta played a significant role in my college experience. The members who became my brothers and best friends provided lifelong friendships and a sense of family. USD also provided opportunities to travel and learn through immersive programs. I spent two weeks in Germany studying under Carole South-Winter and later participated in a program in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, China, giving me a deeper appreciation for diverse cultures and perspectives.
Sam Craig ‘20
Senior Accountant
Ag Processing
My academic advisor, Kyle Schoenfelder, was always approachable, supportive and willing to offer guidance on classes, career opportunities and future plans. Beyond that support, the biggest takeaway from USD was learning how to approach complex problems with a critical mind. My Marketing Capstone course reinforced that mindset, challenging us to analyze real business situations, collaborate with others and develop practical recommendations.
Thejaswini Paripally ‘23
Modeling and Forecasting
JPMorgan Chase
Dr. Bart Hanus has been an incredible professor and mentor throughout my coursework and into my corporate career. He is someone I can always count on for honest, grounded advice, and his guidance taught me not just how to approach advanced business analytics, but how to navigate the professional world with confidence and integrity. Other notable supporters include Dr. Jewel Shepherd and Dr. Thomas Tiahrt.
Past 30 Under 30 Classes
