Each year, the Connect Brookings Committee honors young professionals who go above and beyond — whether it's through workplace leadership, community service, or just showing up and making a difference. This year’s Emerging Leaders and Community Impact Awards shine a spotlight on five incredible individuals whose passion and service are moving Brookings forward.

These award winners reflect the Chamber’s mission to Promote, Advocate, Connect, and Enrich — and we’re so proud to share a bit more about the inspiring work they’re doing in our community.

Emerging Leaders Award Winners

Jeryn Christensen – Be Still Boutique

Jeryn Christensen is a powerhouse young professional who’s making her mark on Brookings as the owner of Be Still Boutique. But Jeryn is more than a boutique owner — she’s a mentor, a role model, and a community cheerleader all rolled into one.

Since opening her doors in 2022, Jeryn has transformed Be Still into a welcoming hub for women of all ages. Through pop-up events, mentorship for aspiring entrepreneurs, and thoughtful collaborations with other small businesses, she’s built more than a store — she’s built a community.

Jeryn leads with authenticity, grace, and boldness. She’s not afraid to tackle hard conversations about self-worth, confidence, and purpose — often using her platform to empower women and create space for meaningful connection. Whether she’s styling someone for a special occasion or offering encouragement on social media, Jeryn shows up with intention and heart.

Her innovative spirit, paired with a strong moral compass and entrepreneurial drive, makes her one of Brookings’ brightest emerging leaders. 

Cierra Steffensen – Brookings Economic Development Corporation

Cierra Steffensen is a dynamic professional with an unwavering commitment to professional growth and community development. 

As the Marketing and Operations Specialist at the Brookings Economic Development Corporation, Cierra is a driving force behind initiatives that support local businesses and promote long-term economic vitality. But her influence doesn’t stop there. She’s also a Certified Tourism Ambassador, a graduate of the 2024 Leadership Brookings class, and an active leader on several boards and committees, including the Brookings Arts Council, the Women in Leadership Committee, and the Leadership Brookings Taskforce.

Cierra’s dedication to serving others and bringing people together is evident in everything she does. Whether she’s strengthening community partnerships, planning impactful programs, or helping others find their place in Brookings, she’s always thinking forward and acting with purpose.

Those who work with her say she leads with empathy and integrity. She listens closely, collaborates openly, and brings a sense of calm confidence to any project. Her ability to connect with others and inspire action is just one of many reasons she’s viewed as a top young professional in our region.

Jacob Hanson – Mills Construction

Jacob Hanson is helping build the future of Brookings. As a Project Manager at Mills Construction, Jacob is leading one of the company’s most ambitious projects to date: Trails Head at Indian Hills. This large-scale development includes five townhome apartment buildings and a three-story mixed-use commercial building, and Jacob has been at the helm from start to finish.

With a steady hand and sharp mind, Jacob ensures each phase of the project is completed to the highest standards of quality, safety, and sustainability. He’s known for delivering results on time and within budget, but it’s the way he leads that truly sets him apart. Jacob approaches his work with respect, integrity, and collaboration, building strong relationships with clients, contractors, engineers, and community members along the way.

A graduate of SDSU’s Construction Management program and a proud Brookings County native, Jacob’s commitment to the community runs deep. He’s a recent graduate of Leadership Brookings and an active member of the AGC Young Constructors, where he supports leadership development, industry innovation, and service within the construction field.

Jacob’s combination of technical excellence, people-first leadership, and hometown pride make him an outstanding representative of the next generation of builders in Brookings — and a well-deserved Emerging Leader.

Community Impact Award Winners

Tehra Nelson – Brookings Area United Way

At the heart of Tehra Nelson’s work is a simple but powerful mission: to build a stronger, more connected Brookings and she does just that every single day through her role as the Community Initiatives Coordinator at the Brookings Area United Way.

As a dedicated community leader, Tehra pours her energy into creating meaningful, lasting impact. Whether she’s coordinating volunteers, supporting partner organizations, or building relationships across sectors, her work is guided by compassion, strategy, and an unwavering belief in the power of community.

Tehra doesn’t just show up — she leads with vision and follow-through. She’s been instrumental in strengthening the reach of local nonprofit programs and lifting up individuals and families in times of need. Her peers describe her as approachable, intentional, and highly dependable — someone who brings people together and helps them see what’s possible.

From strategic planning to everyday problem-solving, Tehra embodies the spirit of servant leadership. Her ability to move initiatives forward while staying grounded in empathy makes her a trusted voice in Brookings and a role model for professionals across the nonprofit sector.

Tony Teesdale – Teesdale Law Office

As an attorney and founder of Teesdale Law, Tony is deeply committed to serving those who might otherwise go without access to quality legal support. His practice focuses on advocacy, justice, and meeting people where they are. Whether serving as a Special Tribal Judge for the Crow Creek Sioux Tribe, a Teen Court Judge, or a Defense Attorney Representative for South Dakota’s Drug Court, Tony brings compassion and integrity to every role he takes on.

But his impact doesn’t stop in the courtroom. Tony is also a passionate community-builder in Brookings. As a dedicated volunteer firefighter and a founding board member of the Brookings Curling Club, he’s helped shape both safety and recreation opportunities for local residents. He’s also been an active member of the Connect Brookings Committee, where he’s known for welcoming new faces, sparking connections, and helping facilitate events that strengthen our business network.

Those who know Tony admire his servant leadership style always humble, always helpful, and deeply committed to lifting up others. He embodies the values of connection, advocacy, and enrichment, and is a true champion for both the Chamber and the Brookings community.

And there’s one more to go...

The Young Professional of the Year,  the most prestigious honor in this award series, will be announced during the Chamber’s Annual Celebration on Thursday, April 3. 

Want to learn more or nominate someone next year?
Visit our Connect Brookings page and stay in the loop at https://www.brookingschamber.org/connect-brookings/