The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) recently recognized three Central Electric Cooperative directors for continued education to maintain the Director Gold Credential certification. Board President Duane Wolbrink, Vice President Todd VanWalleghen and Secretary Mark Hofer have worked diligently to continue growing their governance knowledge of the electric industry to best serve the members they represent.
Director Gold Credential recognizes directors who have earned their Credentialed Cooperative Director and Board Leadership Certificates and wish to continue to learn throughout their service on the board. Ongoing educational curriculum may include advanced courses in director duties and liabilities, board operations, strategic planning and financial decision making.
A quickly evolving business environment has imposed new demands on cooperative directors, requiring increased knowledge of electric utilities, governance skills and the cooperative principles. Central Electric is committed to sharpening this body of knowledge for the benefit of the cooperative and its member-owners.
Besides serving on the Central Electric board of directors, each of these professionals goes above and beyond through their work with other organizations. Wolbrink represents Central Electric on the East River Electric Power Cooperative board of directors. VanWalleghen serves on the S.D. Association of Cooperatives board of directors. Hofer serves on the S.D. Wind Energy Association board and represents South Dakota on the NRECA board of directors.