Vernon Brown

Vernon Brown has a diverse professional background, currently serving as the Associate Vice President of External Affairs at South Dakota State University since September 2022. As a co-owner of The Spice & Tea Exchange in Sioux Falls since June 2019, Vernon combines a passion for food with entrepreneurial spirit. Previously, Vernon was Vice President of Marketing and Community Relations at SDN Communications from January 2002 to September 2022, overseeing brand management and communications. Vernon's political experience includes an eight-year tenure as a City Councilor for Sioux Falls, focusing on community safety, infrastructure, and economic development. Early career experience includes reporting for KELO-TV, covering local politics and regional culture. Vernon holds a Bachelor of Arts in Journalism from South Dakota State University, obtained in 1990.