On Thursday evening, April 18, 2019 nearly 900 people gathered at the Sioux Falls Convention Center to celebrate people whose work supports women in our region. From 74 nominees, winners were selected in nine categories, including the EmBeliever category which is open to women, men and organizations. The foundation of Tribute began with the Leader Luncheon in 1973, a vision of Sylvia Henkin and Marlene Billion. Since then, there have been 329 winners and more than 1,500 nominees.
Thoughtful nominators were key to the receipt of 74 nominations. Then, each category was judged by three individuals utilizing a standardized report card and anonymized submissions. To memorialize Sylvia Henkin, who was instrumental in creating this legacy event, her family made the final choice in the category that bears her name.
“Every nominee has an incredible story, and as a whole they reflect the growing diversity and commitment to making our region all that it can be.” said Karen Lundquist, CEO of EmBe. “We are excited to carry on this beautiful tradition, dedicating an evening to highlight our best and brightest.”
2019 Tribute to Women Categories and Winners
• Banking & Finance: Carrie Wilson, Chief Financial Officer at First Bank & Trust
• Business Achievement: Jess Jasso, Network Office Principal and Chief Development Officer at Northwestern Mutual
• Community Service: Beth Jensen, KELO News Director
• EmBeliever : Chelsea Tracy, Chelsea’s Boutique and Underneath the Clothes owner
• Government and Law: Michelle Boyd, Chief Deputy of the Minnehaha County Sheriff’s Office
• Healthcare & STEM: Amy Elliott, Avera McKennan Hospital & University Health Center.
• Humanities & Education: Pam Hilber, Director of Workforce Planning for Avera Health
• Sylvia Henkin Mentoring Award: Nancy Wahlstrom, Senior Vice President and Trust Officer with The First National Bank in Sioux Falls
• Young Women of Achievement: Maggie Sweets, owner of Maggie Sweets Photography
In addition to announcing the winners, the event is a key fundraiser for EmBe, providing resources to women and families in the region that deliver life-long impact. Through programs in aquatics, youth development, workforce needs, women’s leadership and childcare, services old and new ensure that community needs continue to be met while maintaining dignity and respect for the women who work, live and play in Sioux Falls.
