Pierre, S.D. – Jobs for America’s Graduates – South Dakota (JAG-SD) hosted the annual Career Development Conference on March 10 at Augustana University in Sioux Falls. Students competed in career association activities, and the new 2026-27 JAG-SD state officers were announced.

With over 250 students in attendance, more than 150 participated in the career association competition. These projects are divided into seven categories: employability skills, financial budgeting, financial literacy, knowledge bowl, middle school career exploration, project-based learning, and prepared speaking.

“JAG-SD is a unique program in which students receive individual guidance through school-based instruction and career exploration to help them graduate and transition into the workforce or postsecondary education,” Secretary of Education, Dr. Joseph Graves, said.

To conclude the conference, the new 2026-27 JAG-SD state officers were announced.

The following students were elected:

• President: Lola Weddell, Wagner High School;
• Secretary: Lilly Kracht, Roosevelt High School;
• Parliamentarian: Justin Poor Bear Jr., Bennett County High School;
• School Representative A: Jacqueline Selwyn, Wagner High School; and
• School Representative B: Gabriel Gatalogo, St. Francis Indian School.

“Throughout the school year, JAG-SD students gain a deeper understanding of the necessary skills that will aid them in life and in the workforce,” said JAG-SD State Director Beth Schneider. “Not only do these students learn through their coursework, but also from one another. This conference provides them an opportunity to reflect on their hard work over the school year and hear from their peers across the state.”

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