RAPID CITY, S.D. – “They say that time heals all wounds. It does not. You just turn what that pain is into purpose.”

These were some powerful and passionate words from James Dixon, amputee, advocate, and social media influencer at the 13^th annual Day of Excellence conference held at the Monument’s Fine Arts Theatre in Rapid City.

Dixon, one of the key motivational speakers, shared how the loss of his leg helped him find his purpose. He also credited his mom and grandma for inspiring him as “Superman, just with a bit of kryptonite.” His message is motivation that moves and he encourages everyone facing adversity to “keep going.”

The sold-out event of nearly 1,700 attendees was emceed by returning Denver Broncos Thunderstorm skydiver Kenyon Salo who talked about the “Bucket List Life.” Salo is one of only five members on the team who flies into Broncos Stadium at 60 mph landing spot on the ten-yard line. With over 8,000 skydives under his belt, he travels around the world motivating others to live life to the fullest.

Dr. Amber Selking, PhD, of Selking Performance Group, mentoring athletes and business professionals, talked about how we can win the mental game in life by turning our negative thoughts into “power statements.”

“Understanding what are some positive, powerful, productive statements about yourself, about your mission that you’re on in this world and, and repeating those in a way that gives you the courage and the confidence to show up and do that on a consistent basis,” says Selking.

Joel Zeff, work culture expert and best-selling author, referred to himself as “the clean-up speaker.” He uses his humor and improv skills to engage attendees saying that “it’s important to celebrate successes and have some fun to increase energy and keep passion up.”

Devin Henderson, entertainer, magician, comedian, and podcast host, uses all his talents to inspire and motivate others by saying that “something greater is always possible.”

The Day of Excellence was developed by the Leadership Rapid City Class of 2009 with a desire to provide a legacy project that makes our community better tomorrow than it is today, says Renae Miller, Vice President of Day of Excellence.