Watertown’s Rising Stars: 2026 “Top 4 Under 40” Finalists Announced

Northeast Radio SD News - Watertown, SD - The Watertown area is officially shining a spotlight on the next generation of leadership. Organizers have announced the finalists for the prestigious 2026 Top 4 Under 40 awards, a distinction reserved for young professionals who balance career excellence with a deep-seated commitment to community service.

The final four winners will be revealed during the 2026 Day of Development, scheduled for March 25, 2026, at the historic Goss Opera House.

This year’s finalists represent a wide array of sectors, from public safety and education to entrepreneurship and non-profit advocacy. The nominees were selected based on their professional achievements and their active roles in local volunteerism and civic growth.

The 2026 Finalists include:

·        Tia Hutt – Dakotah Bank (Active with Junior Achievement, Habitat for Humanity, and United Way)

·        Heidi Clausen – Watertown School District (LATC Strategic Advisory Council and Friends of Arrows)

·        Jordan Wollschlager – First Premier Bank

·        Sabrina Valsvig – Elevate IV

·        Derek Barton – Four Seasons Small Engine Repair

·        Michael Wight – Wight Comes Funeral Chapel

·        Seth Fryer – Seppanen Contracting

·        Lindsay Stangl – Visit Watertown (Watertown Kiwanis and Curling Clubs)

·        Shane Hardie – South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, Formerly of Watertown Police Department (Fraternal Order of Police)

·        Shauna Geier – Happy Trails

·        Amanda Woodruff – Rachel’s Hope (SD Bureau of Human Resources and Administration)

Celebrating on the Day of Development

The awards ceremony serves as a cornerstone of the Day of Development, a full-day summit designed to foster leadership and inspiration among Watertown’s business leaders, educators, and entrepreneurs. The event will feature keynote speakers and interactive breakout sessions aimed at driving the community’s future growth.

“The Top 4 Under 40 finalists embody the energy, leadership, and service mindset that drive Watertown forward,” said event organizers. “Their dedication to both career excellence and community involvement reflects the very spirit of the Day of Development.”

Event Details & Tickets

The community is invited to celebrate these finalists and participate in the day’s professional development programming.

·        When: March 25, 2026

·        Where: The Goss Opera House, Watertown, SD

·        Tickets: Available now at www.thedayofdevelopment.com/register-now

For more information regarding the awards or the full event schedule, please visit the official registration website.