MOR-GRAN-SOU ELECTRIC COOPERATIVE DIRECTOR RECOGNIZED FOR COMMUNITY SERVICE

The North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) recognized Vernard Frederick, a third-generation farmer and a lifelong resident of the Flasher community, with the Community Service Award at its 77th annual meeting on Jan. 21, 2020. 

Serving his 24th year as a director at Mor-Gran-Sou Electric Cooperative, Frederick has lived a life of service to his country, his cooperative and his community. A military veteran, he has served as part of the honor guard, leading parades and community events, and organizing the Memorial Day services at the Flasher Legion Hall. A man of faith, he became an authorized lay worship leader for his church when his community couldn’t find a pastor to live in the area. And as a cooperative director, he proved valuable to not only the early adoption of the Innovative Energy Alliance Cooperative, but also instrumental to its growth and longevity. 

Alan Malm, secretary of the Flasher Masonic Lodge recommended Frederick for the award. He says there is no one more dedicated to his community. “Vern is a staple in the community. He is a leader in his religious community at the Flasher United Church of Christ, as well as a founding member of the Flasher Lions Club. He is a vital member of the Flasher American Legion and a dedicated Mor-Gran-Sou board member. He is truly deserving of recognition for his efforts.”

North Dakota’s electric cooperatives congratulate Frederick on receiving this recognition and thank him for his years of service to his cooperative and community.

“Our cooperative directors are true leaders in their communities and cooperatives,” says NDAREC General Manager and Executive Vice President Josh Kramer. “Vernard has dedicated a lot of passion to improving quality of life in his community. It is an honor to present him with this award.”

Every year, NDAREC recognizes individuals for their generous contributions to North Dakota’s electric cooperatives and the communities they serve. An eight-member committee of the NDAREC board of directors selects award recipients from nominations submitted by NDAREC’s members, which includes 16 electric distribution cooperatives and five generation and transmission cooperatives. 

NDAREC is the statewide trade association for 16 electric distribution cooperatives and five generation and transmission cooperatives operating in North Dakota. The distribution cooperatives provide electricity to nearly 250,000 North Dakotans. NDAREC services include legislative advocacy, line worker safety training and professional development services, cooperative business development and communication services including publication of the North Dakota Living magazine.