USDA Rural Development Names 2025 Lenders of the Year in South Dakota

​Dakotaland FCU’s mortgage team ranked third in South Dakota for USDA Rural Development loans.

By USDA

USDA Rural Development recently announced the 2025 Lenders of the Year, recognizing top lending partners who have been instrumental in supporting rural homeownership nationwide. These lenders played a key role in helping rural families and individuals purchase homes last year through USDA Rural Development’s Single Family Housing Guaranteed Loan Program including many in South Dakota.

“We’re proud of our lenders across South Dakota and the work they do to provide homeownership opportunities for rural South Dakotans,” said Lorraine Polak, Rural Development State Director for South Dakota. “Congratulations to South Dakota’s top lenders.”

The top five lenders in South Dakota were:
1st — Plains Commerce Bank
2nd — Dacotah Bank
3rd — Dakotaland Federal Credit Union (Dakotaland FCU)
4th — First Bank & Trust
5th — First Dakota National Bank

Dakotaland FCU’s mortgage department earned third place in the state for their use of the USDA Rural Development program, which helps low- and moderate-income borrowers achieve homeownership. This is especially impressive considering their competition includes some of the region’s largest banks.

“Congratulations to this dedicated team who work tirelessly to make homeownership possible for so many,” said Sarah Senska, Chief Mortgage Officer. “I am incredibly proud of everyone’s hard work and the impact we’re making for people across South Dakota. We strive to provide the very best experience possible, and our reputation keeps us busy — even as others face delays. I also believe our unique and effective marketing efforts are making a big difference!”

Dakotaland FCU is based in Huron, South Dakota with branch offices in Aberdeen, Brookings, DeSmet, Madison, Mitchell, Redfield, Volga, Watertown, and Woonsocket. Established in 1935, the credit union holds nearly $372.5M in assets and serves more than 32,000 members.