Executive Director Nathan Stallinga Receives the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber's 2026 Spirit of DeWald Award

A Career Built on Advocacy

Nathan has spent more than 30 years in human services, and his advocacy for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities has remained consistent. He leads that work here at DakotAbilities. He also carries it to the South Dakota Legislature and through his involvement with Community Support Providers of South Dakota.

A Volunteer First

The Chamber also pointed to Nathan's volunteer record. Since 2012, he has served on the diplomat and ambassador committees, including a term as ambassador committee chair. He has contributed to community appeals, the Chamber foundation, and Operation Thank You. He currently chairs the issues management committee and has also contributed to the budget and finance committee.

Those roles reflect something we see in Nathan every day. He shows up, does the work, and brings people together around a shared purpose.

Nominated By His Team

Our own Shelly Johnson, director of development, nominated Nathan. Shelly described him as a friend, mentor, and trusted colleague to many, and said his reputation for "leadership, honesty, and integrity precedes him wherever he goes."

Chamber President and CEO Jeff Griffin echoed that sentiment, noting that Nathan has been a steady presence at the Chamber for years and that his commitment to serving others and building connections embodies the spirit of the award.

What This Means For DakotAbilities

Recognition like this belongs to more than one person. Nathan's work in the community and in Pierre is possible because of the people we support, our dedicated staff, our families, and the partners who believe in a community where everyone belongs. Having that work noticed by the broader business community is a meaningful reminder that supporting people with disabilities is part of what makes Sioux Falls, and South Dakota, strong.

Congratulations, Nathan, and thank you for everything you do.

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