SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (Press Release) – Julie M. Johnson, Mina, has been named the new South Dakota SCORE District Director. Johnson, a licensed S.D. attorney, registered lobbyist at the S.D. Legislature, and small business advocate has a deep understanding of the SD’s small business, economic, and community development issues.

Throughout her career – including being part of a family-owned business — Johnson has provided support to small business and entrepreneurship, workforce, visitor, downtown, housing and many other economic issues in South Dakota and beyond. She formerly held positions as S.D. Secretary of Labor and as Secretary of Revenue, as well as the President of the Industry and Commerce Association of South Dakota, now known as the State Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Upon her return to north central S.D. after years working in Pierre, Johnson led a growth initiative for Aberdeen called “Absolutely!Aberdeen”, and “Prairie Vision”, its regional development arm.

“We are grateful to have Julie’s expertise at the helm for SCORE across South Dakota,” said Jaime Wood, SBA South Dakota District Director. “Her vast experience within the state, familiarity of the business economy, and previous history as a SCORE business mentor, prepared her for this important leadership role.”

Previously, Johnson served as a SCORE volunteer business mentor as well as with StartHub; BIG Idea; Governor’s Giant Vision; Northern State University’s Center for Creativity, Entrepreneurship and Innovation; FBLA; and, other business development efforts in the state.  Johnson also taught higher education courses on Business Law, Business Communication, Business and Professional Speaking and several others.

“Julie brings a wealth of experience to the position,” said Brian Alwin, Regional Vice-President of SCORE Northwest. “Her many connections in both government and private sectors will help the SCORE organization grow its membership and service footprint.”

In her role as South Dakota SCORE District Director, Johnson is responsible for overseeing SCORE operations across the state, increasing public awareness of small business resources, and recruiting eligible volunteer SCORE mentors to navigate owners in starting and growing small businesses. She can be reached at Julie.johnson@scorevolunteer.org or 605-280-3642.