Since I grew up without a father, I found mentors in books.

George Washington Carver, a man dedicated to his craft and with an incredible desire to learn — presidents sought him out at Tuskegee in the 1930s.

Madonna Swan, a Lakota woman who was simply inspiring; every South Dakotan should read her story.

Benjamin Franklin, who worked tirelessly as a commoner, later became an inventor, a scientist, and an international diplomat — not to mention a Founding Father.

And on occasion, I need to find my inner Zamperini.

A friend took me to Westside Wesleyan Church in Bristol, SD when I was in high school. That experience changed the direction of my life. I don’t remember a single sermon, but I remember how they made me feel — they cared about me. If I had not gone to that church, I am 100% positive my life would look a lot different and a lot worse. The people in that church deserve all the credit for what I have accomplished.

Growing up without a father taught me early the value of responsibility. I had to grow into adulthood quickly, and that shaped my appreciation for hard work, education, and resilience. Knowing what it feels like to start with very little keeps me grounded — and keeps me focused on giving people opportunities, not just speeches. Leadership, to me, means service, humility, and accountability.