Sara Steever Announces Retirement from Paulsen
SIOUX FALLS, SD
Sara Steever has announced her retirement from Paulsen after more than 34 years with the agency.
Steever's journey at Paulsen began in 1991 as a graphic designer. Her insatiable curiosity and ability to embrace emerging technologies propelled her through various roles, including web developer and VP of Digital Services, before she assumed the presidency in 2014. Under her seven-year tenure as president, Steever guided the agency through rapid digital transformation while maintaining its strong foundation in agricultural marketing. She later transitioned to Chief Technology Officer, continuing to advance the agency's digital capabilities.
Steever said she feels honored to have worked with passionate people at Paulsen and in companies and agencies across the country to promote agriculture and America’s rural tradition.
“When I look back on 34 years at Paulsen, I’m grateful to have had a career of serving the people and agribusinesses in rural America,” she said. “We are blessed in this country with abundance because of the people who understand the importance of stewardship, knowing we are here for a short time and need to pass along the land to the next generations better than we found it.”
Steever's impact on the agricultural marketing industry has been profound. She served on the National Agri-Marketing Association Executive Committee for seven years, including two years as president of the professional organization. Her contributions earned her prestigious recognition, including the NAMA Marketer of the Year award, the South Dakota Ad Federation's Creative Legacy Award, and the Sioux Falls Business Journal's Top Innovator of the Year award.
Currently, Steever serves on the board of South Dakota Ag and Rural Leadership and TSP Architecture, continuing her commitment to agricultural advancement and community development.
Raised on a row-crop and livestock farm in southeastern South Dakota, Steever has remained connected to her agricultural roots throughout her career. She and her husband, John, live on land that has been in the Steever family since 1889, where they also operate the Steever House Bed & Breakfast.
Colleagues describe Steever as a lifelong learner whose humility and grace matched her strategic brilliance—qualities that helped shape not only an agency but also an entire industry.
"Sara didn't just build systems and strategies at Paulsen; she helped build a culture that believes serving rural America is a privilege, not just a business,” said Paulsen President and CEO Marcus Squier. “That's her legacy, and it's one we'll carry forward with pride. We're incredibly grateful for her 34 years of contribution and friendship."
