Her Story
About Dani
Dani Norden is the Membership Director at the Chamber of Commerce Nonprofit in Pierre, South Dakota, where she has worked since 2021. Her professional roots lie in graphic design, complemented by minors in advertising and fine arts from her college studies, and she continues to expand her skills through leadership courses. In her role, no two days are alike as she manages memberships, sponsorships, event planning, and account management for the organization. One of her notable achievements includes spearheading the creation of the Oahi Winter Festival, a community event that has grown to welcome over 2,000 attendees annually and is now in its third or fourth year. Dani credits her accomplishments to her exceptional team of five women at the Chamber, led by their CEO, emphasizing collaboration and hard work. She values honesty above all and believes leaders should not hesitate to get their hands dirty or take charge to get the job done. Her advice to others is to embrace discomfort for growth and to approach opportunities with inherent curiosity.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Dani
01What do you attribute your success to?
My current team at the Chamber is incredible. I would not be anywhere near successful without our Chamber CEO and the other staff. We are a really small team of 5 women who try and work our booties off to get everything great.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
You can't grow in comfort, only in discomfort. It's a good reminder of don't be afraid to challenge yourself.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
Don't be afraid to just go for it. Don't be afraid to ask the questions. Be curious. Be inherently curious.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
Challenge is that Chamber of Commerce is not a well-known field unlike healthcare or STEM. Opportunity is growth in the nonprofit sector as many are retiring and there is a lot of growth opportunity.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Honesty is probably up there. The willingness to do what people who are under you do, not be afraid to get your hands dirty. Don't be afraid to take charge and do what you gotta do to get the job done.
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