Doria Drost: Bringing Energy and Community Spirit to Sioux Falls’ Event Scene
At just twenty-four, Doria Drost is already making a name for herself in the Sioux Falls community. As the Director of Marketing for the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, she brings an infectious passion for live events, a dedication to community engagement, and a drive to succeed that’s honestly kinda inspiring.
From Coast to Midwest, a Journey Unfolds
Originally from Poquoson, Virginia, Doria traded the salty air of the coast for the wide-open skies of southwest Minnesota. It was there she truly found her groove, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwest Minnesota State University. Talk about a double whammy of academic awesomeness!
But Doria wasn’t one to just coast through college. Nope, her first full-time job was as a marketing department head at a county hospital. Talk about diving headfirst into the deep end. This experience ignited a passion for connecting with people and making a tangible difference in their lives.
So, what brought Doria to Sioux Falls? A classic tale of love, family, and, of course, a killer career opportunity. Sioux Falls offered the perfect blend of big-city amenities with that cozy, small-town vibe she craved. Plus, it brought her closer to her fiancé and family—always a win-win!
Finding Home in the Heart of Sioux Falls
One of the things Doria loves most about Sioux Falls is its unique ability to balance a bustling city atmosphere with a welcoming, small-town feel. It’s like getting the best of both worlds! She’s described Sioux Falls as “surprisingly cozy,” which, coming from someone who’s lived in both coastal towns and bustling college towns, says a lot.
The PREMIER Center: Where the Magic Happens
As the Director of Marketing for the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Doria has arguably one of the coolest jobs in town. She’s immersed in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of live events, where no two days are ever the same.
For Doria, it’s not just about the job title; it’s about the energy and creativity that come with it. She thrives on the challenge of bringing people together through unforgettable experiences, whether it’s a sold-out concert, a thrilling hockey game, or a family-friendly show.
And let’s be real, who wouldn’t love having a hand in bringing world-class entertainment to their city? But for Doria, it’s more than just the big names and bright lights. It’s about the people—the diverse tapestry of artists, promoters, attendees, and partners she gets to collaborate with every day.
Doria Drost: Bringing Energy and Community Spirit to Sioux Falls’ Event Scene
At just twenty-four, Doria Drost is already making a name for herself in the Sioux Falls community. As the Director of Marketing for the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, she brings an infectious passion for live events, a dedication to community engagement, and a drive to succeed that’s honestly kinda inspiring.
From Coast to Midwest, a Journey Unfolds
Originally from Poquoson, Virginia, Doria traded the salty air of the coast for the wide-open skies of southwest Minnesota. It was there she truly found her groove, earning both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Southwest Minnesota State University. Talk about a double whammy of academic awesomeness!
But Doria wasn’t one to just coast through college. Nope, her first full-time job was as a marketing department head at a county hospital. Talk about diving headfirst into the deep end. This experience ignited a passion for connecting with people and making a tangible difference in their lives.
So, what brought Doria to Sioux Falls? A classic tale of love, family, and, of course, a killer career opportunity. Sioux Falls offered the perfect blend of big-city amenities with that cozy, small-town vibe she craved. Plus, it brought her closer to her fiancé and family—always a win-win!
Finding Home in the Heart of Sioux Falls
One of the things Doria loves most about Sioux Falls is its unique ability to balance a bustling city atmosphere with a welcoming, small-town feel. It’s like getting the best of both worlds! She’s described Sioux Falls as “surprisingly cozy,” which, coming from someone who’s lived in both coastal towns and bustling college towns, says a lot.
The PREMIER Center: Where the Magic Happens
As the Director of Marketing for the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center, Doria has arguably one of the coolest jobs in town. She’s immersed in the fast-paced, ever-changing world of live events, where no two days are ever the same.
For Doria, it’s not just about the job title; it’s about the energy and creativity that come with it. She thrives on the challenge of bringing people together through unforgettable experiences, whether it’s a sold-out concert, a thrilling hockey game, or a family-friendly show.
And let’s be real, who wouldn’t love having a hand in bringing world-class entertainment to their city? But for Doria, it’s more than just the big names and bright lights. It’s about the people—the diverse tapestry of artists, promoters, attendees, and partners she gets to collaborate with every day.
Charting a Course: From Pandemic Pro to Event Extraordinaire
Doria’s path to the event industry wasn’t a straight line—it was more like a choose-your-own-adventure story with a few plot twists thrown in for good measure. During the chaos of the pandemic, when many were hitting the pause button, Doria was busy leveling up her skills. She dove headfirst into the world of event planning, earning certifications and soaking up knowledge like a sponge. This woman clearly doesn’t believe in downtime!
But her journey didn’t start there. Before making the leap to the PREMIER Center, Doria honed her marketing chops as a freelancer, working with clients from all walks of life. This experience not only gave her a taste of different industries but also taught her the art of client management and, most importantly, how to wrangle deadlines like a boss.
So, what ultimately drew Doria to the Denny Sanford PREMIER Center? It was a no-brainer, really. The center’s community-driven mission resonated deeply with her values, and the potential for growth and making a real impact was too good to pass up.
Doria’s Workplace Vibe: Three Words That Say It All
When asked to describe her workplace in three words, Doria didn’t hesitate: Energetic. Adaptable. Collaborative. And honestly, could there be a more perfect trio to sum up the world of live events? It’s a fast-paced, constantly evolving environment where teamwork is key and being able to roll with the punches is non-negotiable.
Beyond the Boardroom: Unveiling Doria’s Surprising Side
Okay, get ready for this one because it’s a doozy. When Doria isn’t busy orchestrating unforgettable events at the PREMIER Center, you can find her…drumroll please…immersed in the world of local politics! Yep, you read that right. This event maven is also a passionate advocate for public service.
In fact, Doria ran for state office in Minnesota back in 2020—and get this, she was the youngest candidate that cycle! Talk about impressive. This wasn’t just a fleeting interest either; Doria is genuinely invested in shaping the future of her community.
Oh, and one more fun fact about Doria? She’s a self-proclaimed news junkie! She’d much rather catch up on current events than get lost in a movie marathon. This woman is all about staying informed and engaged—a true testament to her inquisitive spirit.
A Heart for Community: Doria’s Sioux Falls Footprint
Doria’s commitment to Sioux Falls extends far beyond the walls of the PREMIER Center. This is someone who genuinely believes in giving back and making a difference in her community.
She’s a board member for not one but two awesome organizations: SiouxperCon, a celebration of all things geeky and wonderful, and DisruptHR, a forum for shaking up the world of human resources. Talk about a dynamic duo!
But Doria’s dedication to her community doesn’t stop there. She volunteers her time with organizations that support youth, like the Toy Lending Library and Reading Bridge, because she believes in nurturing young minds and fostering a love of learning.
And as if that weren’t enough, Doria is also an active member of local SME (Sales and Marketing Executives) and YPN (Young Professionals Network) organizations, proving that she’s all about connecting with others and building a stronger Sioux Falls.
Doria’s Sioux Falls Business Wish List: Where Fun and Fitness Collide
If Doria could wave a magic wand and bring one business to Sioux Falls, it would be a fitness center with a twist. Forget your typical gym; Doria envisions a space dedicated to adult recreation and club sports—think drop-in activities, learning new sports, and maybe even some friendly competition with randomized team play. The goal? To create a space where adults can unleash their inner child, break a sweat, and maybe even make a few new friends along the way.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Burns Bright: From Boutique Owner to Dream Chaser
Remember how we mentioned that Doria has a knack for entrepreneurship? Well, her journey into the world of business actually began long before she landed in Sioux Falls. She once owned and operated a charming retail boutique that showcased the talents of local artisans. Talk about supporting your community in style!
But Doria’s entrepreneurial dreams don’t end there. She has a vision for a business that combines a service-based establishment (think cozy coffee shop or quaint bed and breakfast) with a curated artisan market, offering a unique and enriching experience for locals and visitors alike. It’s all about creating a space that nourishes the soul, sparks creativity, and celebrates the talents of the community.
Conclusion: A Rising Star with a Bright Future
Doria Drost is more than just a rising star in the Sioux Falls community—she’s a force of nature. With her infectious energy, unwavering dedication, and genuine community spirit, she’s making a lasting impact on the city she now calls home.
Whether she’s orchestrating unforgettable events at the PREMIER Center, championing local businesses, volunteering her time to worthy causes, or simply embracing the cozy charm of Sioux Falls, one thing is certain: Doria Drost is a name you’ll be hearing a lot more of in the years to come.