My name is Morgan Johnson. I am 20 years old and grew up on the eastern side of South Dakota with a graduating class of about 100 people. I may be biased, but I’ve never been to a small town that has as much heart and commitment as Madison. In my free time I enjoy being with friends, golfing, and just being outside in general. I am currently enrolled in my second year of college at Lake Area Technical Institute in Watertown, SD. In May of 2020, I hope to graduate with a double Associates focused on Human Resources and Marketing. I stay busy being involved at school and enjoy participating in different groups and events. Some of the things I am involved in at LATI includes intramural sports, Student Voice and SkillsUSA. My family has been my biggest support system throughout the last few years and I couldn’t thank them enough. My family consists of my mom, dad, and two sisters.

My mom works at Madison Regional Health System as the OB Manager. Growing up, I’ve always noticed my mom taking further courses to continue her education and work towards this goal. I love going home and having people come up to me say that “Your mom is a great nurse! She’s our favorite!”

My dad works at the Lake County Highway Dept. and is the Weed Supervisor for Lake County. He has been spraying weeds for as long as I recall. Although my dad is a hardworking man and often busy, he always makes time for us 3 girls. He is my number one supporter and would do anything for me, even if that includes driving 60 miles one way on a Tuesday night to bring me my house key and some Tylenol.

Sydney is one of my sisters. She is almost 18 and has been very influential on my life. Sydney was diagnosed with Epilepsy in early high school. Through this journey she has showed me what it is like to make the best of a situation that may not have the best circumstances. Though she has Epilepsy, it never set her back. She works harder and comes out on top because that is the type of person that she is. Work hard, play harder.

Bryn is my youngest sister and full of passion. I would compare her to the second half of summer, very busy. She enjoys being with her friends, being involved with color-guard, and playing with her cat, Jimmy. Bryn is a strong willed person and will stand up in a crowd to fight for what is right. Overall she has a big heart and cares for everyone.

Next up is Avery. Avery is Sydney’s boyfriend and has been in our lives for over two years now. He has been a blessing to our family. He is always willing to give a helping hand when needed, especially during the flood this fall. My mom had no option but to go into work due to short staffing, but Avery stepped up early in the morning to help get ahead of the water to prevent our basement from filling. Avery has been like a brother to me. He has a great sense of humor and picks on me like any brother would and I am thankful to have such great relationship with him.

Last, but definitely not least, my boyfriend Chandler. I met Chandler in October at MidAmerica for SkillsUSA. We hit it off and things have been great since! When he is not working, he is a volunteer firefighter and enjoys building projects. He is so kind to everyone he meets and is truly one of the nicest people I’ve ever met. I am SO lucky to have him in my life.