Brad Hearst elected to chair Lost&Found’s board

Lost&Found’s board of directors elected Brad Hearst to the board chair position at its meeting Oct. 20. Hearst took over the leadership of the board from interim chair Nick Maddock, who had led since June, when Dr. Anne Kelly stepped down as board chair. Kelly had led the board for four years.

“I am absolutely thrilled and honored to assume the role of board chair for Lost&Found,” Hearst said. “This vital organization and cause holds a special place in my heart. I’m excited to lead our dedicated team in our mission to make a positive impact in the communities and on the campuses we support. Together, we will work tirelessly to bring hope and support to those who need it most, and I can’t wait to see the positive change we’ll create.”

Hearst, who is based in Sioux Falls and also frequently works in Rapid City, is a consultant with Marsh McLennan Agency where he advises employers on employee benefits, business insurance, and focused analytical resources.

He is also an avid philanthropist and was the founder and executive director of Survivors Joining for Hope, now a part of Lost&Found, which provides both financial and emotional support to families after they have lost a loved one by suicide. In addition, he has been a teacher for Junior Achievement since 2017 and a mentor for students of the Leadership South Dakota Program.

Outside of work, Brad loves spending time with his wife and three boys. He is also the host and executive producer for the podcast “Society Rewired,” which openly and honestly discusses mental health in order to normalize the conversation and help those currently struggling.

Elections were also held for other board leadership positions at the Oct. 20 meeting. Jerry Cook of Sioux Falls was elected Vice Chair. Cook, who has owned several businesses over 30 years, formerly served as the vice chair of Survivors Joining for Hope when it was a standalone entity.

Tom Parker, who is the director of client services at Limestone, Inc., in Sioux Falls, continues his position as treasurer. Kacey McCarthy, who is the project and brand director at Maximizing Excellence, LLC, in Sioux Falls, will serve as Lost&Found’s board secretary.

Each of these officers will serve a three-year term.