SPEARFISH, S.D. – The finalists for the 12th annual Outstanding Women in Business Awards have been announced, recognizing the dedication, innovation, and community commitment of women across South Dakota.
Over 30 women were nominated by their peers for these prestigious awards, designed to highlight the impact of outstanding women entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs across the state.
The top three finalists for each award will be recognized during the Celebrating Women in Business Awards Luncheon on May 2 at the Spearfish Holiday Inn Convention Center. The finalists include:
Enterprising Woman Entrepreneur Finalists
- Becah Fliehs, Sun & Sea Travel Co., Groton
- Addie Graham-Kramer, The Event Company, Sioux Falls
- Jenny Schmidt, Black Hills Advocate, Rapid City
Enterprising Woman Intrapreneur Finalists
- Paulette Davidson, Monument Health, Rapid City
- Jill Holt, Weller Brothers Landscape Professionals, Sioux Falls
- Amber Vogt, Lawrence County, Lead
Enterprising Young Entrepreneur Finalists
- Kendra Cersosimo, Two54 Creative, Sioux Falls
- Jenna Farrar, Rushmore Athletics, Rapid City
- Marcela Salas, Salas Salsas, Sioux Falls
A new award for 2024, the BHSU Alumna Entrepreneur In Excellence, will be presented by the Black Hills State University Alumni and Advancement to Kelsey Stine, Vela Creative Co. & Accessible Black Hills, Rapid City.
Elizabeth Freer, Director of SD CEO West Women’s Business Center, congratulated the finalists, stating, “It’s an honor and accomplishment to be recognized by the community for everything these incredible women have achieved in their businesses and careers.”
The award winner for each category will be announced live during the event on May 2. The finalists in attendance will also have the opportunity to be selected for the “Women’s Choice Award,” an award introduced in 2022, allowing those present to vote for the woman they want to be recognized for their contributions to the business and professional community.
Registration for the Celebrating Women in Business Awards Luncheon is open until April 26 or until all seats are filled.
Tickets are priced at $59 until April 26 and include lunch, a gift bag, door prize drawings, and networking opportunities. Call SD CEO West at (605) 642-6948 or visit www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO to register.
For more information about the awards, visit www.BHSU.edu/SDCEO/Events/Past%20Events/outstanding-women-in-business-award-winners or follow SD CEO West on social media (@sdceowest).
