Empowering women and propelling economic development across South Dakota.
To serve as a key partner in economic and workforce development in South Dakota providing comprehensive training and business assistance for aspiring entrepreneurs and forward thinking intrapreneurs.
We are here to help you on your journey as an entrepreneur, intrapreneur, and individual. All you need is to take that first step and reach out to our team, and we will get you on the path to success.

Director, SD CEO West
605.642.6311 | Elizabeth.Freer@BHSU.edu
Elizabeth Freer's professional journey is marked by dedication to community development. As the owner of dialogue LLC, Elizabeth consulted and managed major projects throughout the Black Hills, including planning for the world-class STEM institute in Lead, SD for the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority. Her commitment to creating opportunities and providing resources to the community has already earned her a strong reputation throughout the Black Hills region.
Ashley WingertProgram Assistant, SD CEO West
605.642.6948 | Ashley.Wingert@BHSU.edu
Ashley focuses on uplifting her team and the growing community established by SD CEO West by providing key support at events and conferences. Her aim is to make sure that everyone has the resources and information they need to stay on track to meet their career goals, whether it is through ongoing training and counseling, or maintaining a budget.
In her free time, Ashley likes to roam around and explore the outdoors, curl up with a book, or lose herself in embroidery.
Sandy BurnsPresident
Project Solutions | Rapid City
Advisory Board Chair
Claudine BatesStaff Risk Engineer
Western Electricity Coordinating Council | Rapid City
Molly BrownPartner, GenPro Energy Development
GenPro Energy Solutions | Piedmont
Nina Braun CPA, CFPCEO
Ketel Thorstenson, LLP | Rapid City
Carrie GerlachOwner & CEO
Black Hills Adventure Tours | Rapid City
Michelle Loobey-GertschDirector of Advancement
Black Hills Works Foundation | Rapid City
Kristie MartinMarket President
Dacotah Bank | Aberdeen
Kae McNeilRetired
US Bank Wealth Management | Aberdeen
Kanda GuthmillerScholarship Coordinator
Ex-Officio for BHSU University Advancement
Black Hills State University Foundation | Spearfish
Elham ErfanianAssistant Professor of Economics
Ex-Officio for College of Business
Black Hills State University | Spearfish

SBA Region VIII Women’s Business Center of Excellence Award