ABOUT US

Dana Christensen is the chef and founder of The Duck & Cat. Originally from Omaha, Nebraska, Dana earned his B.A. in English with a minor in Psychology from the University of Nebraska at Omaha before training at the Institute of Culinary Arts at Metropolitan Community College.

His culinary path has taken him through community kitchens like No More Empty Pots, fine dining at Heirloom Fine Foods, and years as a private chef and caterer. In April 2023, Dana cooked for James Beard Award winner Chef Sean Sherman at a special dinner for USD’s Native Student Services—an experience that reflects his commitment to food as cultural connection.

Dana’s cooking is grounded in storytelling, seasonality, and a love for the land and water. With The Duck & Cat, he’s building something deeply personal. His food honors the memory of his father and brother, while strengthening his relationships with his spouse (Jackie Wilber) and their family, friends, and community.

Dana volunteers at the Welcome Table every Monday to provide a free meal for the community members of Vermillion, SD.

Co-owner of The Duck & Cat, Jackie Wilber is the behind-the-scenes engine that keeps the wheels turning—literally and figuratively. A self-proclaimed “Jackie of all trades...master of none,” she handles everything from website design and social media to payroll, paperwork, and the occasional existential crisis.

Jackie holds a doctorate in Educational Leadership, an M.Ed. in Teaching & Learning, and a B.A. in English with a minor in Political Science. By day, she’s the Director of the Center for Student & Professional Services at the University of South Dakota School of Education. By night (and weekends), she’s the organizational backbone of the food truck—and the one making sure Dana doesn’t forget to file the quarterly taxes.

A former teacher and librarian, Jackie is also an Experienced Registered Yoga Instructor (E-RYT 500) and a weekly contributor to SDPB’s Teacher Talk blog and podcast. Her passions span education, equity, well-being, and good food shared in good company. At The Duck & Cat, she brings structure to the chaos and heart to the hustle.

Learn more at jackiewilber.com

Sous Chef, soundboard, and secret weapon—Brixz the Flip brings a dash of hijinks to The Duck & Cat. Brixz met Dana back in high school, when Dana recruited them to join the debate team. That spark turned into a years-long collaboration built on trust, creativity, and a shared love of flavor that speaks louder than words.

A nationally recognized debater and coach, Brixz knows how to command a room—and a kitchen. They’re also a musical polymath, able to play any instrument. Their culinary style is just as dynamic, shaped by their rich heritage: Pilipino, Mexican, and Cherokee traditions blend into bold, unexpected dishes that challenge convention and celebrate identity.

Whether they’re riffing on a recipe or creating social content, Brixz brings depth, rhythm, and soul to every aspect of the business. At The Duck & Cat, they’re not just cooking—they’re composing. #souschef 

Erik Christensen is Dana’s older brother and the unofficial muscle behind The Duck & Cat. Based in Omaha, Erik makes the trip up to Vermillion when the food truck needs backup—handling everything from setup and teardown to hauling gear and keeping the crew grounded. Erik holds a B.S. in History from the University of Nebraska at Omaha and spent years assistant coaching the Omaha North Wrestling Team. Under the leadership of his late brother Anders, they lead the team to the 2014 AA Nebraska State Championship. He’s also a proud dad to three amazing daughters—Freya, Ziona, and Bina—and a force at the poker table, chess board, and in Magic: The Gathering.

At The Duck & Cat, Erik brings strength, loyalty, and a whole lot of heart. He’s family, in every sense of the word.