University of Sioux Falls

My name is Tara Johanneson. I am the Director of Online Education at USF. Prior to beginning my USF career, I worked in the Bishop O'Gorman Catholic Schools (previously Sioux Falls Catholic Schools) as a 7-12 Technology/Computer Science teacher, 9-12 Chromebook Coordinator, and K-12 Technology Integrationist. I have taught numerous classes including, but not limited to, Computer Applications, Multimedia, Graphic Design, Computer Programming, Web Design, Introduction to Computer Science, and AP Computer Science. Outside of the classroom, I also advised the Gaming Club, O'Gorman FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) chapter and coached the eSports team.

I earned my Masters of Science in Technology for Education and Training from the University of South Dakota, Bachelor of Science in Business Education and Associate's Degree in Business Management from Dakota State University. I also have endorsements in K-12 Technology Education, Technology Integration, and Technology Coordination. One of my biggest accomplishments was becoming a Google for Education Certified Trainer and a Google Certified Administrator.

I am currently serving as a school board member for Tea Area School District, a university representative for the South Dakota Middle-Level Educators Association a member of the Helpline Center's Survivor of Suicide Loss Advisory Committee, and the Girl Scout Dakota Horizons Outer Limits Service Unit Manager.  I am a gymnastics official for the South Dakota High School Activities Association and the Girl Scout Dakota Horizons 10th grade troop leader.

I live in Tea, SD, with my husband, Jason (co-owner of R&R Mobility in Sioux Falls), and our three children, Taylor, Jaxon, and Jadon. In my free time, I enjoy traveling, baking, playing board games, and reading.

Yes, it true – I’m back. Many years ago, I was one of USF’s (then SFC) first techno-geek graduates (officially, it was a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science). My name is Rob Harrington, and I am the new Director of Administrative Applications. While many things have changed over the years since I graduated, one thing remains – USF’s commitment to raising next-generation leaders with a heart and mindset that embodies the Christian principles the University was founded on. I am privileged and honored to now be a part of continuing that tradition as a staff member.

My work experience has prepared me well for this role as I have worked in various industries and sectors over my career. I have a passion for helping people solve their technical problems and if I don’t have the answer, I will work to get an answer. I look forward to serving the USF community in this new capacity as together we look for ways to become more effective and efficient in providing an experience for our students that is unparalleled.

As for my family, my wife Louise and I met while we were both students on campus. Since then, she has followed me from one coast (Florida) to the other (Washington state) and has been my lifelong companion in raising four wonderful children. Our oldest, Brian, lives in California with his wife. Our second child, Jacob lives in Washington where he is pursuing his teaching certification and working as a paraeducator. Our third son, David lives with us here in Sioux Falls. Our daughter, Sarah is a Sophomore nursing major here at USF.

Louise and I are looking forward to getting involved in USF and the Sioux Falls community once again as we re-establish ourselves here where our story began.

Hello Everyone! My name is Scott Kracht. I am the Server and Communications Administrator here at the University of Sioux Falls. I am very excited to begin this new journey in my professional career as this position will bring me back to working in higher education. I began my IT career in higher education at National American University in 2007 until 2010. I furthered my career in higher education at Western Dakota Tech from 2010 until 2012.

In 2012, my family and I relocated from Rapid City to Sioux Falls to be closer to family. While living in Sioux Falls, I have worked as a Systems Administrator for a financial institution before moving on to a position in the health care as a Systems Engineer. My hope has always been to get back into higher education. I couldn’t have asked for a better opportunity than joining the University of Sioux Falls family.