Pierre, S.D. – The South Dakota Jobs for America’s Graduates (JAG-SD) state officers attended the National Student Leadership Academy (NSLA) in Washington, D.C., Dec. 2-5. The five state officers, elected by their peers for exceptional leadership, represented JAG-SD and participated in learning experiences that will strengthen their leadership skills while supporting their persistence through high school graduation and future success.  

“Through the JAG Career Association, students aren’t just learning about leadership—they’re practicing it every day. They take on officer roles, lead service projects, and coordinate career-focused activities,” said Beth Schneider, State Director of JAG-SD. “Their growth is inspiring to watch, and the way they support one another reflects the strength of our JAG family.”

The 2025-26 JAG-SD state officers are:

• Catelyn Fry, State President, Bennett County High School;
• Marlee Wells, State Secretary, Lyman High School;
• Lilly Kracht, State Parliamentarian, Roosevelt High School;
• Briley Oldenkamp, State School Representative A, Lyman High School; and
• Mariska Parkhurst-Barahona, State School Representative B, Todd County High School.

The NSLA is a capstone leadership experience for state officers and leaders. NSLA allows state officers to immerse themselves in opportunities for experiential learning, real-world application, and professional networking. Students heard from former Jobs for America’s Graduates Career Association (JAGCA) presidents, visited the Capitol, met with congressional representatives to learn more about the legislative process, among more educational opportunities. 

JAG-SD empowers students to take the lead on planning projects centered on civic responsibility, leadership, social interaction, academic performance, and professionalism. The overarching purpose of JAG-SD is to help students stay in school, persist through graduation, and provide participants with classroom and work-based learning experiences that result in a quality job or postsecondary study, leading to a fulfilling career after graduation.

To learn more about JAG-SD, visit https://doe.sd.gov/JAG-SD.  

--30--