Empowerment Starts Here

EmBe’s beginnings are rooted in meetings in 1921 that formed the YWCA in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The vision to serve women and families has remained strong, empowering people to create lives of meaning and purpose, creating a community that serves everyone well.

Mission

Empowering women and families to enrich lives.

Vision

We transform lives, supporting success at work, at home and in life.

Values

Leading, Empowering & Inspiring

Board of Directors

The EmBe Board of Directors and committee members are the connection between the community and our mission – providing leadership and vision to our organization. They provide guidance and governance, often offering unique skill sets and support to our staff. The Board of Directors and committee members consist of influential women and men of all ages, ethnicities, and backgrounds ranging from human resources and law to finance and communications.

John Meyer
Chair – Leadership South Dakota

Beth Jensen
Vice Chair – Keloland Media Group

Alissa Matt Portrait

Alissa Matt
Secretary – University of South Dakota

Brian Gramm Portrait

Brian Gramm
Treasurer – Journey Group Companies

Sonja Theisen Portrait

Sonja Theisen
Immediate Past Chair – Pathward

Rebecca Dahmen-Ponnezhan
Avera

Joe Beck
Viaflex

Portrait of Andrew Curley

Andrew Curley
MIDCO

Antionette Jensen
 Wells Fargo

Melanie Carpenter
Woods Fuller Schultz & Smith P.C.

Stacy Hackett
Sanford Health Foundation

Steven P. Vlk
Marsh McLennan Agency LLC

Leadership

The EmBe Executive Leadership Team is a diverse group, united in their connection and passion for EmBe’s mission and serving this community.

Kerri Tietgen
Kerri TietgenChief Executive Officer
Susanne Gale
Susanne GaleChief Development Officer
Katy Morris
Katy MorrisChief Human Resources Officer
Kelly Ballew
Kelly BallewExecutive Director of Childcare and School Age Care

Documents and Reports

The support of people like you help EmBe to continue to serve the community well. The following materials share more detail about our fiscal responsibility.

Community Partners

The EmBe vision encompasses collaboration and partnerships as a vehicle to enhance the programs and services our organization provides to the Sioux Falls community. As a supporter of EmBe programs and services, these relationships help to ensure:

  • Parents can choose a career outside the home because their children have safe, quality childcare in their absence.
  • School Age Care Programs such as “no school” days allow parents to maintain a full work day if desired.
  • Girls gain leadership skills that carry with them into adulthood.
  • Skill-enhancing and fun programs are available to kids throughout the year.
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