Applications Open: February 1 - 28, 2026

The Billie Sutton Leadership Institute (SLI) is a free, year-long leadership development program equipping people with the skills, confidence, and community they need to make real change in South Dakota.

Through the Sutton Leaders and Rural POWER program, SLI has served 7 cohorts and 105 leaders, representing 38+ communities across the state.

Sutton Leaders is built for adults of all ages interested in public service or getting more involved in their community.

Rural POWER, sponsored by the South Dakota Farmers Union, is growing a new generation of rural leaders with an emphasis on leadership opportunities in rural cooperatives.

Leaders in both program tracks participate together in two in-person, expenses-paid weekend leadership training seminars. These immersive experiences help leaders build the skills and confidence needed to design and carry out self-directed Community Engagement Projects that create meaningful impact in South Dakota.

Throughout the year and beyond, SLI provides hands-on guidance and continued support through targeted mentorship matches, monthly virtual check-in sessions, online training featuring unique speakers and presentations, and in-person networking opportunities.

The 2026 cohort will kick off at the Spring Retreat held April 17–19 in Gregory, SD. The Fall Retreat is scheduled for September 25–27, 2026 in Burke, SD. Attendance at both retreats is critical to maximizing this free leadership development opportunity!