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Constance Walter

Sharon Hemmingson has served as the Business Services and Contracts manager at Sanford Underground Research Facility for the past five and a half years. Prior to that, Hemmingson worked in a variety of areas at Black Hills State University, including student services and sponsored programs, for 27 years. On November 15, she said good-bye to Sanford Lab. 

“I have really enjoyed working here,” Hemmingson said. “I came here because of the science and the mission. It really is a unique place. I don’t know if the people who work for Sanford Lab know how special they are. They are so committed to the facility and are very effective in what they do.”

Hemmingson plans to take some time off and will also serve as a consultant to her successor through December. 

“Sharon has done a wonderful job leading our contracting and procurement efforts over the past five years,” said Mike Headley, executive director of Sanford Underground Research Facility. “I’ve always appreciated her professional and kind approach in working with everyone and her ability to manage the wide array of contracts involved with our work at SURF. We’ll miss Sharon and wish her all the best!”

Lisa Rodgers, who succeeds Hemmingson, comes to Sanford Lab from Iowa State University and Ames Laboratory where she served as a contracts and proposal manager. Ames Laboratory is one of 17 U.S. Department of Energy national laboratories. 

“Lisa is very experienced in DOE contracts and research grants,” Headley said. “Her expertise is a great fit for our current and future projects and we look forward to working with her.”

Rodgers, too, is looking forward to a new adventure.

“I’m excited to be at Sanford Lab,” Rodgers said. “This role allows me to use all of my experiences. The people here are all working toward a common goal—and the scenery is amazing.”

Rodgers and her husband, Chuck, have three children: Parker, 9; Greta, 6; and Evan, 4.

“We’re really looking forward to exploring the Black Hills, doing some ‘creek stomping’ and taking some road trips.”

Although she said she will miss working at Sanford Lab, Hemmingson said she’s looking forward to the next chapter in her life and believes she is leaving Sanford Lab in good hands.

“I’m excited about Lisa’s new role here,” Hemmingson said. “She has great DOE experience, which will be helpful to everyone.”