Aug. 16, 2022

This week’s Up-and-Comer is Kristy Laue, vice president of creative at Lawrence & Schiller.

Name: Kristy Laue

Age: 38

Hometown: Jamestown, North Dakota

What brought you to Sioux Falls?

When I was 18, I moved to Brookings to attend SDSU and during the summer of my junior year interned here at SDN Communications. I got to “test drive” the city, and by the end of the summer, I knew this is where I wanted to settle after graduation. As I’ve grown in my career, the city has grown even more – and I’ve loved being a part of it.

What keeps you in Sioux Falls?

Sioux Falls feels “just right” for me. As someone who grew up on a farm but loves to have amenities and events nearby, Sioux Falls gives me the best of both worlds. We have a lot going on here, but the city still feels tight knit. I also love how progressive, growth-minded and generous the community is.

What’s your favorite thing about your job?

I have multiple moments each day when I stop and think, “Wait – I get paid to do this?” You get to think up and create some pretty wild things in advertising. My favorite part has to be the people, though. Everyone is so talented, creative and supportive. We complement and challenge each other in the best way.

How did you get connected to your industry?

I always knew I wanted to do something with writing, but I had no idea those types of jobs existed in marketing. I owe it to my amazing adviser at SDSU, Roxanne Lucchesi, for opening my eyes and connecting me with a lot of people in the Sioux Falls ad industry.

Describe your workplace in three words.

Driven. Smart. Fun.

What is something someone might be surprised to learn about you?

In addition to my oldest daughter, my husband and I also have twins! It’s a special club to be a part of.

What’s your favorite way to give back to your community?

Right now, I serve on the board for the Museum of Visual Materials, which has been a great way to give back and learn more about nonprofits in our community. I was also part of last year’s Leadership Sioux Falls class, which taught me a lot about how I can continue to serve in the future.

What’s one business you’d like to see in Sioux Falls that isn’t here now?

I’m a sucker for a good outlet mall.

Where do you see yourself in five years?

As part of the L&S leadership group, we’re currently working with agency ownership on succession planning. In five years, I hope to be an agency owner (!) and a whole lot wiser.