USF to Honor Distinguished Alumni During 2025 Cougar Days

Alumni News
Published: 09/17/25

The University of Sioux Falls will celebrate the achievements of alumni on Friday, October 3, at the Country Club of Sioux Falls with an Alumni Achievement Awards Celebration and Dinner during Cougar Days.

Alumni Achievement Awards recognize outstanding graduates who have made exceptional contributions to their fields of endeavor, their communities and their churches. Innovation, leadership, scholarly research, teaching and healing are just a few areas for which alumni are being honored. The following awards will be given to the six recipients below:

Alumni Pacesetter Award: 

  • Brandon Hanson, Bachelor of Arts in Communication Studies & Theatre and Art (2012), Master of Business Administration (2021)
    • Brandon is a visionary leader shaping Sioux Falls through strategic, servant-hearted leadership. As CEO of Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc., he drives growth and community at the city’s core. Previously, he led EmBe’s childcare and school-age programs and advanced from exhibitions assistant to director of museums at the Washington Pavilion, where he managed major projects and launched the Washington Pavilion’s partnership with SculptureWalk Sioux Falls. Known for integrity, humility and ministry-minded leadership, Brandon quietly invests in people and details that make a lasting difference—living out USF’s mission with faith and excellence. 
  • Brittany (Kurtenbach) Hanson, Bachelor of Arts in Music Education and Communication Studies & Theatre (2013), Master of Education in Educational Administration/Adult & Higher Education (2017)
    • Brittany currently serves as program director for Forward Sioux Falls, where she works closely with partners in the public and private sectors to ensure Sioux Falls has a strong economy and remains a vibrant, welcoming community for both businesses and families. As a former USF staff member, she served as director of alumni relations and annual giving and helped shape the USF Alumni Association into what it is today and was a driving force behind creating the award-winning GIVE2COO campaign. A respected community leader, artist and advocate, she exemplifies servant leadership and Christian character in all she does.  

Lois Harchanko Distinguished Music Award: 

  • Mandy (Kallis) Bowker, Bachelor of Arts in Music Education (2004)
    • Mandy has devoted her life to music, education and service. She currently serves as assistant director of fine arts for Bozeman Public Schools, where she helps lead a district-wide vision for arts education. Mandy’s career spans roles in arts administration at Cornish College of the Arts, private piano and voice instruction, and extensive work as a music director for theater and church productions. A talented and active performer, Mandy sings with the Bozeman Symphony Choir, Opera Montana and the nationally renowned chamber ensemble Roots in the Sky. She also regularly performs in regional theater and on her church’s worship team. During her time at USF, she was a member of the Coo Review and Commitments music ministry teams. Mandy embodies the spirit of the Lois Harchanko Distinguished Music Award through her integrity, creativity and unwavering dedication to using her God-given gifts in service to others, making her a shining example of the University’s mission.   

Dr. A. O. Larsen Distinguished Alumni Award: 

  • Ryan Beier, Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education (1998)
    • Ryan is a transformative figure in South Dakota’s soccer and educational programs. As a physical education and health teacher at O’Gorman Catholic Schools from 2001 to 2024, Ryan built one of the state’s most successful high school soccer programs. With five girls’ state titles, one boys’ title and a combined record of over 200 wins, he is the winningest high school soccer coach in South Dakota history. Beyond coaching, Ryan champions inclusivity through TOPSoccer, an adaptive program for children with disabilities, and is expanding opportunities statewide. His dedication earned him the 2023 South Dakota State Spirit of Soccer award in recognition of his TOPSoccer work. He is beginning his second year teaching and coaching at Harrisburg High School in Harrisburg. A pioneer of USF’s soccer program, Ryan embodies the University’s mission through every athlete he teaches and child he encourages. 
  • Doug Hunter, Bachelor of Arts in Religion (1979)
    • Doug is a global connector, coach and advocate for marketplace ministry whose remarkable journey spans over five decades of faith-driven leadership. Doug has served as CEO of multiple companies and organizations and has equipped Christian leaders in over 30 countries through speaking, teaching and mentoring. Doug began his career as a union worker and rose to become president and CEO of Carter Elevator Company. Since then, he has founded or led numerous organizations with global influence, including Business Partners International and the Fellowship of Companies for Christ International. His lifelong calling—to integrate faith and work—has inspired Christian professionals around the world to view their vocation as ministry. Doug has served on over a dozen boards, including the USF Alumni Advisory Board, and continues to invest deeply in people through his coaching with Doug Hunter, LLC. Doug’s faith, humility and encouragement have left a lasting impact worldwide. His life is a true reflection of USF’s mission of Culture for Service. 
  • Paul TenHaken, Master of Business Administration (2005)
    • Paul is a servant leader whose faith-driven vision and entrepreneurial spirit have shaped one of America’s fastest-growing cities. As the mayor of Sioux Falls since 2018, Paul leads with integrity, innovation and an unwavering commitment to building a thriving, resilient and inclusive community. Before public office, Paul founded Click Rain, a digital marketing firm recognized nationally for its workplace culture. His work earned him accolades including “South Dakota Young Entrepreneur of the Year.” As mayor, Paul has overseen unprecedented growth, championing public health, housing, infrastructure and quality of life. His leadership during COVID-19 gained local and national recognition. He has also made personal wellness, servant leadership and faith integral to his platform, modeling holistic leadership. Paul reflects USF’s mission, leading not for personal gain but to serve, governing with humility, wisdom and faith, mentoring young leaders, strengthening families and inspiring the next generation.  

Alumni, friends of the University, community leaders and the general public are invited to enjoy an evening dedicated to celebrating the excellence and impact that USF alumni are making in the Sioux Falls community and beyond.

The celebration will begin with a social hour at 6 p.m. followed by a dinner and program at 6:30 p.m. Registration is $40 and can be completed at www.usiouxfalls.edu/cougardays.

The Alumni Achievement Awards Celebration and Dinner is one of many events happening during USF’s Cougar Days. More on Cougar Days at www.usiouxfalls.edu/cougardays.

To read more about the history of the awards or make a nomination for next year visit www.usiouxfalls.edu/alumni/awards.