Meet The Runners

Jon Buchanan woke up on his 30th birthday and felt like he was getting old. That day he became a runner. He started with a run around his block and returned exhausted. So he ran around the block twice. Six months later, he ran his first marathon. He has since run 9 marathons, mostly of his own design, through the backwoods of his native home in Salt Lake City.

As a trained Primary CareSports Medicine Physician, Jon’s focus has always been on athletes. He has watched with growing concern the number of athletes who are pushed too hard: by parents, coaches, and their own unreasonable expectations of excellence and perfection for themselves.The problem is that they just don’t take care of themselves emotionally. A turning point was when one of his concussion patients called his office saying he wanted to take his own life. He just couldn’t take it and was calling the Sports Med office for help. Jon didn’t know what to do. His staff directed the athlete to professionals who could care for him and luckily his life was saved. Since that experience, Jon’s focus in the clinic is treating the whole patient: mind, body, and soul.

Jon is known for running barefoot or in minimalist shoes. His favorite shoes are green canvas Xero shoes, splattered with paint and coming apart. He says “I wear them as a reminder that we are all broken inside.” One of the dangers of mental illness is that people put on a brave face and pretend that life is great, when inside there is tremendous pain and suffering. Jon wears the shoes to show that we all need to let our brokenness show because only then can we achieve true healing.

Jon is happily married and has 5 beautiful children, ranging from ages 1 to 19. He is passionate about health, sports, and wellness and is honored to be a first-time runner as a part of The 437 Project.

Dawn Marie, a dynamic advocate and community leader from the Sisseton Wahpeton Oyate of the Lake Traverse Reservation, holds a Master’s in Social Work from the University of South Dakota. In 2023, she made history as the first woman of color elected to the Sioux Falls School District School Board. Her influence extends beyond this role, evidenced by her active participation on the Bridging the Gap Board and the Levitt and the Falls Foundation.

Dawn Marie’s dedication has been widely recognized, including with the Emerging Leader award at the University of South Dakota Alumni Achievement Awards in 2022. With over a decade of experience supporting schools and afterschool organizations, she is now leveraging her expertise to enhance cultural competency, education quality, and youth services in mental health. Committed to community building and empowerment, Dawn Marie also finds fulfillment as a mother to her 10-year-old daughter, Rhayn, and as a cherished mentor to many young adults.

Susan Kornder is the proud wife of Tom Vogel, and mother of two: daughter Emma, 17 years old, and son Owen, 14 years old. She is the Executive Director of Northeastern Mental Health Center in Aberdeen, SD. She has been a committed employee for 20 years and has devoted her career to enhancing access to services for those with mental health and substance use disorders. She has also assisted with local suicide prevention efforts in her region. She is currently the President of the South Dakota Council of Community Behavioral Health and is on the South Dakota State Social Work Board of Examiners. A true social worker at heart, she supports all community and state initiatives to enhance the lives and needs of others.

Susan has experienced firsthand the impact of mental health and substance use disorder by providing treatment to clients and in her own family. She has had family members struggle with substance use disorders, mental health disorders, and suicide. Her passion to educate and connect people to accessible, quality services keep her driven to be an advocate for people with all needs.

Susan, whose favorite race was the Twin Cities Marathon, is a lifelong runner and says that running provides her a physical, emotional, and spiritual outlet to keep life in balance. She is an outdoor enthusiast, and you will find her enjoying the outdoors with her friends and family year-round.

On participating in The 437 Project, Susan says “I am most looking forward to accomplishing this with the team and the message of awareness and connection to services that this event will provide to the people of South Dakota.”

Lisa Larson is the office manager at Dobesh Chiropractic in Mitchell, SD. She manages the daily operations of the clinic and strives to make a positive impact on patients’ mental and emotional wellbeing to supplement the physical support they receive from their visits to the practice.

Lisa has enjoyed running throughout her life. She has participated in several 5K, 10K, and half marathon distance races. She has completed four full marathons and qualified for and completed the 2019 Boston Marathon. Lisa was also a proud runner of The 437 Project in 2023.

Fourteen years ago, Lisa began a marathon for her own survival, racing against the effects of years of alcoholism. In the early years of her recovery, she discovered that her passion for running became her “meditation on the run.” As she runs, she finds she is better able to gather her thoughts, think through creative ideas, and connect to her higher power through prayer. In her sobriety, Lisa realized that the mental strength she gained as a result of her training matched the physical benefits.

As she has grown in her recovery, Lisa has been an advocate for others who face the same disease. She knows first-hand that it does not discriminate and that its victims are often experts at covering up their vices. Statistics show that addiction and suicide often go hand-in-hand, and as a result, Lisa has been an advocate for mental health awareness and openly shares her journey and zest for life with others.

Lisa believes that life, like running, is a journey filled with transitions and challenges that reveal a person’s true strength. She lives by the words of U.S. marathon legend Amby Burfoot: “As runners, we all go through many transitions – transitions that closely mimic the larger changes we experience in a lifetime. First, we try to run faster. Then we try to run harder. Then we learn to accept ourselves and our limitations, and at last, we can appreciate the true joy and meaning of running.”

John Meyer is honored to be a returning runner for The 437 Project in 2024. When John set off on the run last year, he knew this project was for an important cause, but after completing the run, he believes it is THE cause.

John is the Executive Director of Leadership South Dakota, and he also coaches entrepreneurs to go from solo to CEO in his business, Leadmore. In 2011, John co-founded Lemonly, a design firm that helps the world’s best brands like Netflix, Marriott, Major League Baseball, and Google tell their stories. As Lemonly’s CEO, John built a strong company culture, gaining regional and national attention and becoming one of the best places to work in the Midwest. John is married to Paige Pearson Meyer and loves being a girl dad to Margot and Liv.

John’s running journey started as a hurdler on the Brookings Bobcats track team. His 7th place finish in the state 110m hurdles was mediocre, but high school track established a love for running and competition. Today, John seeks out a ‘misogi’ (significant challenge) on the calendar that transforms the entire year. Previously, John has hiked the equivalent of Mt. Everest with the 29029 challenge, ran the Portland Marathon, finished 75 Hard, and completed The 437 Project. This year, his misogi is to exercise every single day of 2024.

Carmen is the Director of Radiology and Clinical Informatics for Philip Health Services in Philip, SD. Through her roles in both patient care and technology, Carmen has been instrumental in helping to influence and implement change in the world of healthcare.
Carmen has been running since grade school – far longer than she cares to admit! Since completing her collegiate running career, she has primarily stuck to fun relays or road races with family and friends. Carmen has run one full marathon and several half marathons, with the hope that she can continue to do so for many years to come.

Carmen says that running is her main driver for physical and mental health. While running, she has time to reflect on life, and sometimes pushes herself to get a little bit uncomfortable! She counts all of these hours spent putting feet to pavement as a space for personal growth.

Six years ago, she and her family took a leap and moved from Sioux Falls to her husband’s hometown of Philip. Philip is a small community in western South Dakota where Dustin helps his brothers run the family ranch. Together they are raising three children: Asher (18), Jack (16), and Nora (12).

“I am honored to represent rural, western South Dakota as a runner on this year’s The 437 Project team. Suicide and mental health issues are something that impact so many in our state. I think The 437 Project is a great way to help bring awareness to these issues and expand resources to underserved areas. The fact that this initiative is combined with running, my own mental health outlet, is a perfect fit.”

Jessica is a Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner in Pierre, South Dakota. She was born and raised in Northern California and has lived in South Dakota ever since attending nursing school at the University of Sioux Falls. Not a day goes by in her career where she does not address mental health in one way or another. She often inquires about exercise or hobbies as a stress outlet when discussing depression and anxiety because she believes it has a profound effect on mental well-being.

“Unfortunately, we are seeing increasing depression and anxiety in our youth at ages that keep getting younger and younger. For me, this project provides a big incentive to be able to spread awareness and to become a resource in my community for people of all ages who have been affected by mental health and/or suicide. I love the concept of The 437 Project and what it represents, because I truly think mental and physical health go hand in hand in so many ways.”

Jessica’s running journey started in high school when she began going to the track and running while her mom was walking. She was quickly spotted and recruited by the cross country team and her journey has not stopped. She ran the steeplechase and the 5k at Chico State and decided to sign up for a marathon as a stress outlet during nursing school. She has since run 5 marathons and 2 half marathons. She is proud to have run the Boston Marathon in 2016 and 2017, and her ultimate goal is to go back someday. Her running looks different after having 3 kids, but she continues to find time to run, whether pushing a stroller, running with her dog, or running with friends.

“Running is so dear to my heart. It is a true passion, and I can honestly say it has helped me so much through some of my most challenging times in life. I know what it has done for my mental health, and I know how much it continues to help me feel grounded and more like myself. As a mom I sometimes feel like I lose sight of myself, but when I lace up my running shoes, I am quickly reminded of who I am. I am so excited to represent the Pierre Community as a member of The 437 Project. I hope it continues to expand and that our communities continue to work together to provide resources for those in need.”

Running became a regular part of Dan’s life as a member of Bishop O’Gorman High School’s soccer team back in the early 2000s. Today it’s an integral catalyst for his mental and physical health.

Dan grew up in Sioux Falls and eventually graduated from Georgetown University with a bachelor’s degree in Spanish. While completing a master’s degree in international relations at Creighton University, he noticed that writing could eventually have his professional focus. That realization led to journalism and KELOLAND News, where Dan has been a full-time reporter since 2014.

Dan covered The 437 Project’s route from the Sturgis area all the way to the Iowa border in 2023, and in 2024 he’s thrilled to cover the event while also participating. Dan has completed three marathons in his running career, but this will be a unique challenge, one for which he’s grateful to be part of the team.

Wherever Dan has lived, be it Sioux Falls, Washington, D.C., Mexico, Omaha or Texas, running is indispensable for mental health. It’s a privilege to be among the 12 runners utilizing their talents and platform to spotlight mental health while also celebrating the mileage!

Mark Scharnberg has been a runner as far back as he can remember. Growing up, he usually finished last to his brother and sisters in the races his dad had them run around their rural Hartley, Iowa farmhouse. Fast forward to today, he is a dedicated husband to Angel and a proud father to Eloise (11) and Everett (9) who he now chases around to various school and sporting events. During the day, he serves as the Chief Financial Officer for Vance Thompson Vision, where his cup is filled daily with the people-centered mission.

Mark was a collegiate cross country and track & field athlete at Augustana College where he specialized in 10,000 and 5,000 meter races. Twice a North Central Conference champion on the track, he’s since moved toward marathons and ultra marathons. In August 2023, Mark completed the Leadville Trail 100 Run and in April 2024, he will be lacing up his shoes for the 128th Boston Marathon.

Mark credits much of his drive and ambition to the unwavering support of his loving family. Always surrounded by their encouragement and guidance, he developed a deep appreciation for the importance of fostering strong family bonds and creating a legacy of compassion and service.

Betsy Schuster returns to the running paths after a decade-long break from longer distance runs to join this year’s The 437 Project running team. Initially uncertain about her place among accomplished runners, she soon realized that feeling out of place is a universal struggle. Betsy runs to demonstrate that while our journeys are individual, support and encouragement is always available. With the guidance of two-time The 437 Project Runner Alex Pool, Betsy is embracing and enjoying long-distance training once again. The importance of taking care of your mental health along with your physical health is paramount to Betsy, and she works to encourage those around her.

Betsy served as the Helpline Center’s Vice President of Program Development for over eight years. She saw firsthand the incredible work the Helpline Center’s team does 24/7 to support individuals across South Dakota. In May 2024, Betsy started her new role as the CEO of Active Generations in Sioux Falls, SD.

Betsy is deeply appreciative of her family’s support throughout her journey. Her husband Matt keeps her accountable, often checking in on her training, affectionately referring to her as ‘Forrest’. Their two children, Maya and Ryker, serve as her security and encouragement team, sometimes biking alongside her on the trails. Betsy works to instill in her children the belief that challenges can be overcome, reminding them they are made to tackle difficult tasks.

She aspires for The 437 Project to serve as a powerful testament that amidst the challenges we all encounter along our unique journeys, there is hope and support around us.

Lexie Warejcka serves as a Director of Marketing for the State of South Dakota.

Lexie’s roots in South Dakota run deep. She is a graduate of Mount Vernon High School and Dakota Wesleyan University in Mitchell. In high school she actively participated in various sports. After college, she discovered a passion for running, eventually completing one marathon and eleven half-marathons, with the ambitious goal of running a half-marathon in every state. Despite her enjoyment of competition, Lexie’s favorite runs are the therapeutic self-care runs through the scenic hilly roads of her small town, Academy, South Dakota.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Lexie finds joy in spending quality time with her husband and enthusiastically supporting their nieces and nephews in their various activities. She is a proud mother of two energetic children, Brelee (4) and Axton (1), who share her love for an active lifestyle.

Lexie is honored to be a member of The 437 Project, a platform through which she can raise awareness about both mental and physical health in rural South Dakota communities and contribute to the well-being of others.In her journey, Lexie finds unwavering inspiration and strength in Joshua 1:9, drawing courage from the words: “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” These words serve as a guiding light, instilling resilience and courage in her endeavors.

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Martin “Marty” Wennblom currently teaches 7th Grade Science and Social Studies at North Middle School, in Rapid City, South Dakota where he resides with his wife, Amber, and three children: son Miles and daughters Ava and Cordelia. He graduated from South Dakota State University in 2001 and subsequently received a commission as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Army Quartermaster Corps. While serving 21 years on Active Duty in the U.S., Marty always maintained his holistic health and fitness.

Marty’s assignments include Platoon Leader, Fort Carson, Colorado; Company Commander, Fort Carson, Colorado; Observer Controller, National Training Center, Fort Irwin, California; Advanced Civil Schooling (MS Kinesiology) at Indiana University (Bloomington); Physical Education Instructor, United States Military Academy at West Point, New York; Battalion Executive Officer, U.S. Army Chicago Recruiting Battalion, Naval Station Great Lakes, Illinois; Brigade Operations Officer, Fort McCoy, Wisconsin; Battalion Commander, Defense Logistics Agency, Anniston Army Depot, Alabama, Senior Army Advisor, Army National Guard, Rapid City, South Dakota. Marty served 37 months of combat duty in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2003 to 2007.

Lieutenant Colonel (Ret.) Wennblom’s awards and decorations include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary and Service Medals, Armed Forces Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, and Overseas Service Ribbon.

Marty is a competitive master runner who has raced 11 Marathons, all of them Boston Qualifying times. He has raced three Boston Marathons (2013, 2021 and 2024) and two Chicago Marathons (2014 and 2015). Marty was the 2019 Army Ten Mile Masters Champion with a time of 52:25 and has a lifetime marathon best of 2:31:20. Marty founded Pivotal Running, to help athletes develop and optimize competitive performance.