5 Questions with Anna Jankord

Anna Jankord is the Chamber’s new Vice President of Member Relations and a connector at heart. With 15 years of experience in leadership and talent development, she is passionate about helping people and organizations grow. A Sioux Falls native, Anna is deeply involved in the community, serving on the Sioux Empire United Way Board of Directors and chairing Volunteer United, coaching her kids’ soccer teams, and supporting youth programs like Girls on the Run and Junior Achievement. At home, she and her husband, Brad, stay busy with their two children, Grace (8) and James (6), and their loveable 14-month-old Black Lab, Bella.

1. If you could witness any event of the past, present, or future, what would it be?

The 1999 Women’s World Cup Championship. As a young soccer player, I looked up to those women and still do today. They empowered an entire generation of girls to dream bigger, and their stories remind us that friendship and leadership go hand in hand. This team and other professional women’s soccer players are champions for equal pay — demonstrating opportunities to shatter the glass ceiling. I could go on…one of my favorite memories is when Brandi Chastain came to Sioux Falls for a clinic after the World Cup  — I still carry that experience with me today.

2. When you’re not working, where can we usually find you?

Sports are truly a family affair in our house. I coach both of my kids’ soccer teams, while my husband, Brad, coaches our son’s football team. We also love playing golf together and cheering on our favorite teams — the Philadelphia Eagles, Minnesota Gophers, USD Coyotes and the Harrisburg Tigers. Connecting with kids and helping them build confidence and relationships through sports is really special. Sports teach kids so many life lessons, and we love being part of that journey.

3. How do you describe Sioux Falls to people who don’t live here?

I usually tell people that Sioux Falls is a unicorn. It feels like we live in this incredible bubble of generosity. We’re one of the most philanthropic communities in the country, with leaders who pair vision with action to build something special. What makes Sioux Falls unique is that it offers big-city experiences while still holding onto a small-town feel where people know you, support you and genuinely care. After living in Minneapolis for 11 years, I can’t emphasize that balance enough.

4. What is something you are optimistic about for our community?

I’m really optimistic about the next generation of leaders in Sioux Falls. More and more people are stepping into roles on boards, committees and even elected positions, and it’s exciting to see that energy building. There’s also a strong interest in professional development right now, which tells me people want to learn, grow and make an impact. That gives me a lot of hope for our future

5. What excites you most about the Chamber’s mission, and how do you see yourself
engaging with it in your new role?

What excites me most is the Chamber’s investment in people, through education, leadership development and relationship building. My background in learning and development has shown me how transformative growth opportunities can be, and I look forward to bringing that lens to my new role. When individuals feel supported with a sense of belonging, they thrive, and that ripple effect strengthens our entire community.