Engaging and empowering the “Human” in Humanity.
Our Mission
To take people on a journey to discover a dynamic culture that fosters excellence in their environment and the development of a better world.
Our Vision
To empower individuals to lift their personal and professional community by celebrating and engaging the “human” in “humanity.”
Our Why
To provide a tangible working platform igniting individual passion and organizational pride. THE HUMANITY LAUNCH understands that a successful culture requires action and interaction.
how we work
The Humanity Launch specializes in presentations promoting the exploration and creation of dynamic classroom culture. A menu of topics is available; however, these are not cookie-cutter presentations. Composing and producing a one of a kind motivational talk, keynote speech, or small group workshop for you and your audience is the Humanity Launch’s forte.
Have a specific theme?
In an initial interview, your ideas, concerns, and objectives will be heard and collected. From the history and mission of your school to trends in the field, current pulse points are at the core of each presentation. Storytelling is at the core of our style, which is real, engaging, entertaining, and provoking. Audiences will leave with applicable skills for their personal and professional life.
About Us
THE HUMANITY LAUNCH combines the professional experience of two long-time educators, who collectively have more than 70 years in education. What is unmeasurable is their commitment and passion for the field of education.
Gregg Talcott
Dr. Gregg Talcott followed in his father’s footsteps as an educator and brings 37 years of experience as a teacher, coach, and administrator in South Dakota schools. Dr. Talcott holds multiple degrees from Northern State University and the University of South Dakota. From 2000 to 2019, he served as the lead principal at Brandon Valley High School, where he fostered a culture of excellence that continues to thrive.
Under Dr. Talcott's leadership, BVHS became known as the top-performing academic public high school in the 'AA' class in South Dakota. The school's fine arts and athletic programs are also among the state's finest. He attributes the school's success to its student-centered culture, which emphasizes the servant role that all adults in the building play in creating an environment where students can excel.
Dr. Talcott's passion for building strong school communities is further highlighted in his TEDx talk, "How to Build a Community in a School." In this inspiring presentation, he shares insights on fostering meaningful relationships and creating a collaborative environment that supports both students and staff. Watch his TEDx talk here.
Beyond his professional achievements, Dr. Talcott and his wife Kami, a dedicated preschool educator, are proud parents of two amazing sons, Jack and Evan. Together, they embody a commitment to education and community that inspires those around them.
Kim Bartling
Kim Bartling's professional career spans 34 years, the public and private sector, primary, secondary and higher education, and two countries.
Kim chaired the Speech Communication and Theatre Department at the University of Sioux Falls for 14 years and has directed over 115 productions from South Dakota to New York City. Kim owns Ephemeral Productions, a theatre company dedicated to social change and women empowerment. She also owns Plains Speaking People, a storytelling company with a Midwest connection - plainsspeakingpeople.com
Kim has developed a unique world view on how to creatively ignite a dynamic classroom culture. She currently teaches critical thinking and classroom management to teachers in Belize, Central America. As an artist-in-residence in South Dakota, she leads programming in creative writing and spoken word performance. Bartling focuses on the work of Dr. Brene Brown and “Daring to Lead,” which explores the need for courage, vulnerability, shame, and empathy in professional and personal leadership.
This Garretson, South Dakota native, is inspired by her two sons; Teake and Tyler, who with wife, Katie, are the parents to Kim's creative partner in crime - grand-daughter, Eva. Kim is also extremely proud of her Belizean children Brittany, Rodell, and grandson, RJ.