Who We Are
What began in 2011 as a simple idea — enrich classroom learning through hands-on gardening activities — has grown exponentially and reaped a harvest beyond imagination.
Today, Ground Works Connect has an expansive vision focused on building agricultural literacy and informed, engaged citizenship within each student participating in our programs.
Our Mission
With an integrated approach, Ground Works Connect incorporates interactive computer activities, youth summer camps, and teaching gardens to deliver hands-on lessons in STEAM education, agricultural literacy and student leadership.
Admin Staff
Cindy H. Coates
Executive Director
Ginger McNickle
Horticulture Specialist
Stacia Even
Executive Assistant
Board of Directors
Cory Hughes
First PREMIER Bank
President
Walt Bones
Hexad Farms
Former SD Secretary of Agriculture
Kris Denevan
Sanford Health
Bob VanKirk
Wesley United Methodist Church
Melisa Farke
Sanford Health
Don Ryswyk
Sioux Falls Career and Technical Education
Bjorn Nelson
Bayer
Kelsey Rounds
Aver McKennan Hospital & University Health Center
Heidi Zwinger
Summit Contracting Inc.
David Skaggs
AgroVive Biologicals
Steve Sikorski
Minnehaha Master Gardeners
Dan Larsen
Sioux Falls