Up-And-Comer Hanna Berg Featured in SIOUXFALLS.BUSINESS

We're very proud of the work Hanna Berg does as the Talent Acquisition Manager at DakotAbilities. Hanna is the first person potential employees meet when they inquire about open positions at our organization, setting the tone for our culture and communicating expectations of the vital roles she works hard to fill. Hanna's love for the nonprofit sector shines through in her interview as she shares her personal and professional insights into what matters most. The following article is from www.siouxfalls.business.

Jan. 20, 2026

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Hanna Berg, the talent acquisition manager at DakotAbilities.

Name: Hanna Berg

Age: 28

Hometown: Grew up in Sioux Falls. Currently living in Harrisburg.

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

Birth.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Family.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

Working at DakotAbilities provides me with the opportunity each day to make a meaningful difference in the lives of the individuals we support, which I consider a true privilege. It is incredibly rewarding to foster a culture rooted in dignity, respect and authentic compassion, knowing that our work creates meaningful opportunities and inclusive communities. DakotAbilities has also allowed me to engage with the broader community through networking and volunteer work with organizations such as Junior Achievement, The Teddy Bear Den, United Way and the Young Professionals Network steering committee, further amplifying the positive impact we make together.

How did you get connected to your industry?

My path to the nonprofit sector has been shaped by both professional experience and personal perspective. Earlier in my career, I worked in roles that allowed me to build a strong foundation in people-focused work, particularly in human resources. Over time, I realized I was most fulfilled when my work was connected to a mission larger than myself. My personal experience living with a traumatic brain injury gave me a deeper understanding of the importance of advocacy, accessibility and inclusive support systems. When the opportunity to work at DakotAbilities came along, it felt like a natural alignment of my skills, values and lived experience. Being able to support an organization that empowers individuals with disabilities while contributing to a mission-driven culture has made this role especially meaningful.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Enriching, authentic and genuine.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

I have a traumatic brain injury as a result of a car accident, which is one of the reasons DakotAbilities is such a meaningful place for me to dedicate my career.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

My favorite way to give back is volunteering with The Teddy Bear Den. My husband and I have a 16-month-old daughter, Lauren. During my pregnancy, I learned how vital a strong support system is for both mom and baby. That experience deepened my appreciation for organizations that walk alongside families during such an important season of life.

The Teddy Bear Den holds a special place in my heart because of the way it supports economically disadvantaged pregnant women and teens in our community. The program encourages early and consistent prenatal care by providing education, referrals and incentives for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Through collaboration with hundreds of health care providers and community partners, The Teddy Bear Den helps ensure moms feel supported, informed and empowered. Being part of that mission is incredibly meaningful to me.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

Inside amusement park that is accessible.

If you had $1 million to start a business, what kind of business would it be?

A nonprofit, but I would need to do research on community needs.