The South Dakota Rural Electric Association held its 82nd annual meeting last week (Jan. 11-12, 2024) in Pierre with more than 300 electric cooperative leaders in attendance. Nearly 100 lawmakers took part in the association’s legislative dinner.
“Powering the Prairie” was the meeting theme that summarized a full slate of informative industry-related discussions and programs that covered a variety of topics, including key state and federal legislative issues, electric grid reliability, implications of the current political climate and lessons in member-focused leadership.
“Energy demand is growing at an every-increasing rate,” said Don Heeren, SDREA’s board president, during his annual address. “Data centers, electric vehicle growth, technology linked to heating and cooling our homes, and agricultural energy needs are all pressuring the energy grid. This trend is set to grow dramatically in coming years.”
Steve Barnett, SDREA’s general manager, commented, “South Dakota’s electric cooperatives are focused on providing reliable and affordable energy with every tool at their disposal and a diverse energy portfolio. We are supporting sustainable energy and approaching energy production with common sense and credibility.”
The challenges and opportunities that South Dakota’s electric cooperatives face in ensuring prosperity for co-op members and their communities were thoroughly discussed during the two-day event.
“As member-owned, member-controlled organizations, we continually strive to improve the quality of life across our state and every community we serve,” said Barnett. “Cooperative membership has value.”
Attendees heard compelling presentations from industry leaders as well as from Sen. John Thune, Sen. Mike Rounds and Rep. Dusty Johnson who provided updates on federal legislative issues they are facing in Congress.
Donovan Young Man was presented with SDREA’s 2024 Legacy of Leadership Award. This award highlights outstanding cooperative leaders who lend their talent, time, expertise, and passion toward achieving success for their cooperatives and their service areas.
Young Man serves as a board director for Lacreek Electric Association, in Martin, S.D., and as a director for SDREA. He is dedicated to the electric cooperative movement and mission and has held leadership positions on various cooperative boards at the local and regional levels for 29 years. Additionally, Young Man has served for 41 years in many roles at the Oglala Lakota County School District, where he made an enduring contribution to the local youth. From 1992 to 1996, he served on the Oglala Sioux Tribal Council, and has served on the Oglala Lakota College Board of Trustees since 2014.
Donovan Young Man’s life and contributions are a testament to his deep-rooted commitment to his community. His dedication to serving on numerous fronts showcases his unwavering desire to make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of those in his community.
Comments