If you're new here, we're the First Responders Support Training (FRST) Center, and we're dedicated to promoting health and wellness for first responders statewide. This month, we will share an update on the Firefighter Wellness Summit, a new addition to the team, a message from a first responder in the field, and nutrition resources. Thank you for joining us this month -- we are excited to have you here!
Firefighter Wellness Summit Update
We are excited to announce the launch of our second round of focus groups this spring at the Wellness Summit, hosted here at Brookings on March 28th, 2026. We are excited to open this opportunity up to South Dakota volunteer firefighters as well as fire chiefs, for our remaining 6 spots. Attendees can expect exercise information, an interactive hands-on lunch, and mental health and stress management tools.
Please email allison.barry@sdstate.eduto reserve your spot. We look forward to welcoming you and showcasing our space!
A message from our Strength Coach, Seth Daughters, on what to expect:
"We are excited to host you in the FRST Center Strength Lab for the Firefighter Wellness Summit on March 28th. In the Strength Lab, we will be hosting a 30-minute example workout followed by a 30-minute informational seminar. Please wear comfortable workout attire and bring a water bottle, towel, and a fresh pair of shoes for the weightroom. After the 30-minute workout, we will hold a brief seminar on topics such as equipment use and setup, space design, and where to start in implementing a fitness routine. Come with any questions you may have regarding physical activity and fitness. We look forward to the event!"
FRST Center Spotlight
Dr. Dakota Witzel is an assistant professor at South Dakota State University. Her research focuses on daily stress processes and healthy aging. We are excited to bring her expertise in these areas to the team.
"Being part of the FRST Center team and contributing to research on first responders has been an extraordinary experience. Being a researcher first and foremost, it's easy to get lost in the process, to want to answer the questions that you want to answer without consideration to the population. The FRST Center team puts the needs and considerations of first responders front and center and reminds me- as a researcher- that the why behind why we do research is to support the people in our communities. I am so lucky to be part of this community and help support the first responder community by supporting daily mental health."
FRST Center Partners with Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue
Allison Barry and her team are excited to partner with Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue to create a blueprint for career departments to use as a guide to develop fitness initiatives. Check out this article to learn more about this new collaboration!
See what Officer Jacob Vukovich (middle) of the Brookings Police Department shared with us below!
"Wellness has come to mean much more than just being in shape to work out or compete in a sport, as I did when I was younger. It is now about balance, self-awareness, and making intentional choices that support my overall well-being. I’ve seen how prioritizing rest, movement, mental health, and meaningful connections can positively shape not only my own life but also motivate and impact the lives of those around me. When I focus on wellness, I’m more present, patient, and resilient. I’ve also witnessed friends and family experience powerful changes, gain confidence, reduce stress, and find greater joy simply by committing to small and consistent wellness habits."
Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue Nutrition Education
Our undergraduate research assistants, Erin Unzen and Kenzie Thompson, spoke at a Sioux Falls Fire and Rescue Cadet Presentation. See what they have to say about their experience!
"Our goal is to introduce nutrition education early in their training, equipping cadets with foundational habits that support long-term success. By emphasizing prevention, we hope these practices carry over seamlessly onto the floor. The cadets were respectful, engaged, and eager to learn. Witnessing their genuine interest in nutrition and wellness is what makes this work both exciting and deeply rewarding. Following our presentation, SFFR leadership extended additional opportunities to collaborate — a strong indication that our work exceeded expectations and is making a meaningful impact."
Nutrition Column
Take a look at the flyer below for some helpful nutrition tips on making quick, smart food choices in the kitchen and while on the go, when working demanding jobs!
Don’t miss out—explore the FRST Center website today for previous newsletters, updates, expert tips, and resources designed to keep you strong, healthy, and ready for the job. Everything you need, all in one place.
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Stay Tuned For Our Next Newsletter
Highlights from the Summit
Meet Audra Janke from Cascade Counseling
SDState School of Health and Human Sciences, 1060 Campanile Ave., Box 2275A, Brookings, SD 57007
