Editor’s Note: Palace City Profiles is an ongoing series of community members’ stories, introducing us to our neighbors and the personalities that call Mitchell home. If you have suggestions for individuals or families with a great story, please contact Doreen Nelson at 996-1140 or doreen@mitchellsd.com.
Meet Jessica Dollahon, known to friends and family as Jessy, and her husband, Scott. This dynamic duo, married for a long time, share their home with a lively dog named Chester and two cats. The couple’s story began when Jessy was in high school and Scott was in college, brought together by a mutual friend, leading them on a journey from different parts of the country to their current residence in Mitchell.
Jessy hails from the quaint town of Van Buren, AR, while Scott's origins trace back to Lincoln, NE, with a significant portion of his upbringing in Norristown, PA. The couple spent 30 years in Pennsylvania before making the move to Mitchell. Jessy’s career advancement prompted this significant change; she accepted a role as Assistant Director of the Kelley Center for Entrepreneurship and Assistant Professor of Management at Dakota Wesleyan University (DWU). Scott, employed by Quench, a company based in King of Prussia, PA, works remotely, allowing the transition to Mitchell to be seamless.
Upon arriving in Mitchell, Jessy and Scott were struck by the town's small size and openness, a stark contrast to the bustling east coast city they previously called home. This new way of life came with its own set of surprises, such as unique local dishes like “chislic” and “hot dish,” which they found quite intimidating. They also had to adjust to the slower pace and the longer distances between towns, something unfamiliar to them.
The Dollahons quickly grew fond of Mitchell’s low crime rate, to the extent that their house lacked deadbolts until they had them installed by Ron’s Bike Shop. They appreciated the convenience of having everything close by, a significant change from their previous experience with heavy traffic. The friendliness of the people in Mitchell stood out to them, and they continue to be pleasantly surprised by the genuine warmth and hospitality they encounter.
Jessy and Scott have enthusiastically embraced their new community. Jessy joined the local Exchange Club, and both have participated in various Mitchell Chamber Newcomer Events and DWU activities, including serving Thanksgiving dinner to students. They have enjoyed attending plays, First Fridays, and cook-offs at the VFW, all of which have helped them integrate and form new friendships. They regularly attend church, where they often bump into people they have met at other community events, fostering a sense of belonging and connection. This has helped them build strong ties with the local community and feel even more at home.
Jessy’s hobbies include knitting, reading, and playing video games, while Scott enjoys hiking and biking. Together, they love exploring their surroundings, having visited Deadwood, Mt. Rushmore, and Crazy Horse multiple times. They are particularly fond of the antique mart and DWU sporting events. Hiking in South Dakota has become a new passion for them, offering stunning landscapes and a chance to connect with nature.
In her role at DWU, Jessy has made significant contributions by collaborating with the local Chamber of Commerce and businesses for leadership training and events. Scott continues his work as the Director of Sales Operations for Quench, effectively balancing his remote responsibilities with their new life in Mitchell.
When it comes to dining out, Jessy and Scott favor Corona Village and Tokyo. They recommend visiting the Prehistoric Indian Village for a glimpse into the area’s rich history. A memorable local event they attended was the Chili Cook-off at the VFW, where they were impressed by the welcoming atmosphere and delicious offerings.
Jessy and Scott advise newcomers to actively engage with the community. Attending events, joining groups, and participating in local activities are key to making friends and feeling at home. They wish they had known more about the distance from Mitchell to larger cities, as it was a significant adjustment for them.
Reflecting on their experience, Jessy and Scott are grateful for the warm welcome they’ve received in Mitchell. The town’s friendliness and slower pace of life have been a refreshing change. If there’s one thing they miss, it’s the public transportation they were accustomed to. Jessy leaves us with this message: “Moving to Mitchell has been a refreshing change for us. The warmth and friendliness of the community, coupled with the slower pace of life, have made us feel truly at home. We're excited to continue exploring and becoming a part of this wonderful town.”
