Building Momentum - Women in Business

JoEllen Dykstra

JoEllen Dykstra is a dynamic entrepreneur and healthcare professional who has spent her career building, leading, and reinventing successful businesses. With over 30 years in the field as a Physical Therapist Assistant—including 20 years running her own contract service company—JoEllen knows what it takes to navigate the challenges of small business ownership with resilience and constant learning. At a time when many consider slowing down, JoEllen chose to level up. Eleven years ago, she returned to school and earned her license as a Massage Therapist, launching a thriving orthopedic-focused practice grounded in skill, trust, and results. Her drive to educate and empower others led her to become a nationally certified Continuing Education Instructor, now teaching massage CE courses across three states. Four years ago, JoEllen stepped into a new industry, co-founding a small brewery with her husband. It was a complete pivot—one that demanded learning on the fly, wearing multiple hats, and navigating how it looks to run a business with your spouse. JoEllen is a proud wife of 34 years, a mother to four grown children, and a grandmother of six. She brings authenticity, passion, and a strong sense of purpose to every endeavor—proving that women can reinvent themselves, lead with confidence, and thrive in both business and life.

Denise Del Favero

Denise Del Favero is the co-owner of Bread & Vine Bistro in Mitchell, South Dakota, which she runs with her husband, Jeff. Originally from New England, Denise spent 26 years as a real estate agent in Connecticut while raising her family — a career grounded in relationships, trust, and deep care for people and their stories. In 2020, she and Jeff set out on a bold new chapter, traveling full time across the country in their Tiffin motorhome. After two years on the road, they landed in Mitchell for what was meant to be a short summer stay — but they quickly fell in love with the town’s quaint charm, kind-hearted people, and slower pace of life. Three years later, their dream came true when they purchased the beloved Koinonia Kafe, now reimagined as Bread & Vine Bistro. The bistro opened in April and has become a joyful extension of Denise’s lifelong values: empathy, empowerment, hospitality, and heartfelt connection. Denise leads a team of 11 young women with intention and care, creating not just a workplace, but a nurturing environment where people can grow. While honoring the café’s tried-and-true menu that the community has come to love, she and Jeff have added a warm, homey touch with the addition of a bakery offering fresh sourdough bread twice a week and a daily selection of house-baked treats. At Bread & Vine, every detail reflects Denise’s passion for purpose-driven hospitality and her belief that cafés can be sacred spaces for community, conversation, and comfort

Chad Pinkelman

Husband. Father of two. Business Banking Officer at First Dakota National Bank in Chamberlain, SD. The thing I enjoy most about business banking is helping small businesses. Prior to banking, I was the Executive Director for the Lake Francis Case Development Corporation. Before that, I was an academic advisor at the University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business. I am currently the Chamberlain-Oacoma Chamber of Commerce President, Vice President of Dakota Milestones (nonprofit that provides community-based services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities), and I serve as a member of my church finance board. I enjoy most sports but particularly like golf, basketball, football, and track & field

Lisa Schoenfelder

From power suits to overalls, Lisa Schoenfelder is living her best life as CEO/Co-Owner of Sip Homestead Farms BnB and Choteau Creek Brewing Company. Her 40 years working in the technology industry as Sr. Manager, Project Manager, and Trainer has built the foundational skills to manage a great family-owned business with 13 employees. Lisa's bachelor's degrees in finance and economics along with a Masters in Managing Information Systems has provided the knowledge to manage a successful and financially viable business. As a Leadership Coach, she has been able to support the success of others in their endeavors. Lisa's greatest passion is around creating unique experiences at her business, from the attention to details for a guest at the BnB to the amazing food and beer her, her husband and team create at the brewery.

Colette Mesman | Panelist Moderator

Colette Mesman is a dedicated leader and advocate for South Dakota’s business community. As the South-Central Regional Representative for the South Dakota Retailers Association, she brings a deep understanding of the state’s culture, values, and economic landscape. Raised in a small town where hard work was second nature, Colette’s professional journey began at just ten years old, delivering newspapers. Her early experiences in the service industry instilled a strong work ethic that carried through her career, spanning retail, daycare, finance, office management, and leadership roles in nonprofit organizations. This diverse background has given her a broad perspective on business operations and community engagement, making her a trusted resource in her field. Colette’s professional experiences, combined with her passion for empowering others, make her an ideal facilitator for this conversation. Married to her high school sweetheart, Darin, and proud mother of two children, Colette balances her dedication to her work with a love for adventure—whether it's riding their Indian motorcycle, kayaking, or enjoying quality time with family. She remains committed to fostering growth and innovation within South Dakota’s business sector while creating meaningful connections in her community.