Some events stay with you long after they end. They become the moments you return to because they remind you why this work matters. Over my four years at IEDC, there have been a handful of experiences that stand out that way. Our centennial regional event in Rapid City, South Dakota is now one of them.

As we planned IEDC's centennial year, we made a deliberate decision not to host a third conference. Instead, we chose to partner with economic development organizations across the globe to co-host regional events that reflect the unique strengths and priorities of their communities. That approach has allowed us to celebrate 100 years where economic development is happening every day, in places both large and small. It has given us the opportunity to learn alongside our partners, highlight remarkable work taking place across the profession, and bring our centennial celebration directly to the communities that have shaped IEDC over the past century.

There may be no more fitting place for that celebration than Rapid City, South Dakota. Known as the “Shrine of Democracy” and celebrating its own 150th anniversary this year, Rapid City welcomed more than 100 attendees from nine states to discuss the future of economic development in the shadow of Mount Rushmore.

The event was co-hosted by Elevate Rapid City and the Southwest Initiative Foundation in Minnesota, two organizations from neighboring states that came together around a shared commitment to strengthening rural communities.

Over two days, the conversations were as wide and vast as the rural communities that line South Dakota. They reflected both the opportunities and the challenges facing rural America. They also helped shape our thinking about where economic development is headed and how IEDC can continue to support communities, particularly rural communities, in deeper and more meaningful ways.

We explored future metrics to better understand the impact of economic development, how rural places can capture opportunities in trade and foreign direct investment, how entrepreneurship and small businesses continue to drive local economies, and how stronger collaboration and networks can help economic developers better serve their communities.

What stayed with me most, however, was not a particular session or presentation. It was the people.

Rapid City Mayor Jason Salamun set the tone for the event with a fitting reflection on what economic development means to Rapid City and why it is so important to him as mayor. He centered the conversation on the impact economic development has on people and the importance of telling that story through a human lens. As he put it, “Economic development is all about the people and the story,” before proclaiming Monday, July 13, 2026, as Economic Development Centennial Celebration Day.

The room brought together every corner of the profession, from utilities and economic development organizations to workforce leaders, municipal and state officials, and small business advocates. Many represented smaller communities where economic development professionals often wear multiple hats and work with limited resources. Yet throughout the event, the spirit of collaboration was unmistakable. It was present in every panel discussion, every networking conversation, and every new connection that was made.

Economic development, especially in smaller communities, can sometimes feel like lonely work. But gatherings like this are a powerful reminder that none of us are doing it alone. They reinforce that we are part of a profession filled with people who genuinely care about one another, care about the communities they serve, and care deeply about creating opportunity for others.

Thank you to Taylor Davis and Scott Marquardt for their leadership in making this event possible, and to every attendee who joined us in Rapid City. I left inspired by the conversations, the partnerships, and most of all, the people.

As I reflect on IEDC's Centennial year, these two days will remain one of my favorite reminders of why this profession matters and why we are stronger when we come together.