SDARL's First Annual Summit Brings Alumni and Leaders Together
SDARL celebrated an exciting milestone with the success of its first-ever SDARL Summit, June 19-20, 2026, in Oacoma, SD. Bringing together alumni, speakers, sponsors, and guests from across the state, the event was filled with learning and renewed connections.
The Summit was created with a simple goal: provide an opportunity for SDARL alumni and friends to reconnect while continuing the lifelong leadership journey that begins in the program. Throughout the day, attendees explored emerging issues impacting agriculture and rural communities, learned from expert speakers, exchanged ideas with fellow leaders, and strengthened relationships that will continue to benefit South Dakota for years to come.
The energy in every session and conversation demonstrated what makes the SDARL network so special. Participants represented many sectors of agriculture, business, education, government, and rural communities, yet all shared a common commitment to serving others and helping South Dakota thrive.
This event would not have been possible without the incredible support of our sponsors. Their investment in leadership development allowed us to create an engaging and meaningful experience while reinforcing the importance of preparing leaders for the future of our state. We are deeply grateful for their generosity and partnership!
We also extend our sincere appreciation to our outstanding speakers. Their willingness to share their knowledge and perspectives challenged attendees to think differently, embrace innovation, and continue growing as leaders.
Secretaries Panel
Hunter Roberts, South Dakota Secretary of Agriculture and Natural Resources (moderator)
Walt Bones (Class II)
Mike Jaspers (Class IV)
Lucas Lentsch (Class II)
Kim Vanneman (Class II)
Artificial Intelligence
Sara Steever
Dr. Ashley Podhradsky
Leadership Lab
Jennifer Henrie (Class IX), SDARL Program Director
A special note of appreciation goes to the SDARL Summit Committee, who brought this event to life. From developing the program and securing speakers to coordinating logistics and creating a welcoming experience for every attendee, the committee worked behind the scenes for months.
Summit Committee
Willie Hinker (Class XII), Chair
Corey Chicoine (Class XI)
Tina Erickson (Class XII)
Kevin Jaspers (Class IV)
Sheena Larsen (Class XIII)
Derek Little (Class IX)
Marty Michalek (Class XIII) - Chuckwagon Cook
Dawn Nagel (Class VII)
Tanya Torguson (Class XI)
Finally, thank you to every guest who attended. Your enthusiasm, engagement, and willingness to share your experiences created an atmosphere that reflected the very best of the SDARL community. Leadership is strengthened through relationships, and this Summit served as a reminder that the SDARL family continues to make a positive impact across South Dakota.
The overwhelming response to this inaugural event confirms that the Summit has an important place in the future of SDARL. We are already looking ahead to next year and are excited to build on this year's success with even more opportunities to learn and connect.
Thank you for being part of the SDARL family and for your continued commitment to leadership, agriculture, and the future of rural South Dakota. We can't wait to see you at the next SDARL Summit!
