Watertown Prepares for 4th Annual “Day of Development” to Inspire Community Growth (Video/Streams)
- Steve Jurrens
- Mar 20
- 2 min read
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - The Watertown community is gearing up for two days of inspiration and professional growth as the 4th annual Day of Development returns on March 24-25, 2026. Founder Mitch Reed, who also serves as the Superintendent of the Florence School District, interviewed with Steve Jurrens at Northeast Radio SD to discuss the event’s evolution and what attendees can expect this year.
What began as a simple “concept” has transformed into a regional staple, drawing attendees from across South Dakota, including Rapid City, Sioux Falls, and Aberdeen. For Reed, the motivation behind the event remains rooted in a desire to fill a gap he noticed in the local landscape.
“I saw a void in the community of bringing people together—like-minded people together—to get something done and push the community forward,” Reed shared during the interview. “The first year, you don’t know what you don’t know. We were trying to sell a concept rather than an event. Now, people know what’s expected.”
A Two-Part Experience
The event kicks off on Tuesday evening, March 24, with the “Night of Development” at Lake Area Technical College. Doors open at 5:00 PM for this free community session, which features speakers Mike Donahue, Major League Baseball agent Mark Linweaver, and Hall of Fame speaker Brad Montgomery.
A highlight of the Tuesday evening program is the Watertown Community Builder Award ceremony. Reed emphasizes that these awards celebrate the “unsung heroes” of the workforce. “We take for granted loyalty and pride in work in this society,” Reed noted. “These individuals are perfect examples of what it means to be loyal and be proud of the work that you do.”
The momentum continues on Wednesday, March 25, at the historic Goss Opera House. Starting at 9:00 AM, the full-day session includes keynote addresses, breakout sessions, and panels featuring local and regional business leaders. This year’s panelists include representatives from Glacial Lakes Rubber, Summit Contracting, and SDSU mental coach Marley Sailer.
Recognizing the Future
The Wednesday program will also recognize the “Top 4 Under 40” leaders, showcasing young professionals making a significant impact through non-profit work and community board service. Reed admitted that while these leaders often shy away from the spotlight, their contributions are vital. “These individuals just do things; they don’t want any credit for it. They do them because that’s what they’re supposed to do in the role they’re in.”
Community Support and Attendance
With attendance up significantly from previous years, the event is nearing capacity. Reed credits the success to a massive grassroots effort and the support of local sponsors like the Watertown Rotary Club and local media.
“Everyone deserves an opportunity to be motivated and inspired,” Reed said. “Whether it helps you personally or professionally... those conversations with individuals in the community help us all move the needle.”
Tickets for the Wednesday session are available at thedayofdevelopment.com, while the Tuesday “Night of Development” remains free to the public.
