Elevate Rapid City is excited to recognize a business and an individual whose long-standing contributions have helped shape the strength and character of the Rapid City region.
The 2026 Granite Award will be presented to Monument Health, and the 2026 George Award will be awarded to Marnie Herrmann. Both will be formally recognized at Elevate Rapid City’s Annual Awards Night on June 9.
A Legacy of Strength: The Granite Award
The Granite Award honors a business that serves as a pillar of the community, demonstrating long-term stability, investment, and commitment to the region.
Monument Health exemplifies that standard.
As the largest employer in western South Dakota, Monument Health has grown alongside the region for decades, consistently investing in facilities, workforce, and access to care. Today, the organization supports thousands of jobs, contributes significantly to the local economy, and continues to expand services so residents can receive high-quality care close to home.
Beyond its economic role, Monument Health’s community presence is felt through outreach, sponsorships, and programs that improve quality of life across the Black Hills. From free health screenings to partnerships that expand access to care, the organization has built a track record defined not by a single moment, but by sustained commitment over time.
“Receiving the Granite Award reflects our unwavering commitment to growing with this community, investing in this community, and showing up consistently, year after year, for the people we serve,” said Paulette Davidson, President and CEO of Monument Health. “We're proud to call the Black Hills home and honored to be recognized as a pillar of this region.”
A Legacy of Service: The George Award
The George Award recognizes an individual whose leadership and selfless service have made a lasting impact on the community.
Throughout her career, Marnie Herrmann has combined business leadership with deep civic engagement, serving in key roles across organizations that shape the region’s future. From her leadership within the banking industry to her involvement on boards spanning healthcare, economic development, and community organizations, her influence has been both broad and meaningful. Her work has helped guide major decisions that impact Rapid City’s growth.
“I’m deeply grateful to Elevate Rapid City for this meaningful recognition and am thankful for the incredible opportunities Rapid City has given me over the years to collaborate with people who care deeply about our community in ways that are both fun and impactful,” said Herrmann.
Honoring the Past. Celebrating the Future.
The George and Granite Awards are among the longest-standing recognitions tied to Elevate Rapid City and the Chamber of Commerce, with decades of past recipients who have helped build the foundation the region stands on today.
This year’s Awards Night carries added significance as it aligns with milestone anniversaries: America’s 250th, Rapid City’s 150th, and the Chamber’s 140th year of serving the business community.
Together, these milestones provide a moment to reflect on the people and organizations that have shaped the past while continuing to invest in what comes next.
Join Us on June 9
Awards Night will be held on June 9, bringing together business and community leaders to recognize those who are driving Rapid City forward. The premier sponsor of the event is SDN Communications.
Tickets are available now. Click here to reserve your seat: Awards Night Tickets