Gov. Rhoden Appoints Jim Schmidt to the Board of Economic Development

PIERRE, S.D. – On July 18, 2025, Governor Larry Rhoden announced the appointment of James “Jim” Schmidt to the South Dakota Board of Economic Development. 

“South Dakota relies on strong leaders like Jim who dedicate their lives to service and leave things better than they found them,” said Governor Larry Rhoden. “I am confident that he and the rest of the Board of Economic Development will help me keep South Dakota Open for Opportunity.” 

Jim Schmidt currently serves as the Lincoln County Commissioner. He has extensive leadership experience, having served as President of the Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce, President of the Children’s Home Society, Director of the Sioux Empire Housing Partnership, and Executive Vice President for the American Cancer Society of the Dakotas. Schmidt has also worked in various education roles – as a high school teacher, school counselor, and the President of Killian Community College in Sioux Falls. 

“I wish to thank Governor Rhoden for the opportunity to serve on the Board of Economic Development,” said Jim Schmidt. “I’m looking forward to working with the Governor and the members of the board in recruiting new businesses and expanding job opportunities across the State of South Dakota.” 

Jim Schmidt graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from Augustana College and a Master of Arts from the University of South Dakota. You can find a picture of Jim Schmidt here.