Longtime Slope Electric Cooperative director honored for co-op leadership
On Feb. 11, the North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives (NDAREC) presented Lauren Klewin, former president of Slope Electric Cooperative, with the Cooperative Leadership Award, recognizing 27 years of exceptional leadership and unusual devotion to duty. Klewin was honored by his peers during a Feb. 11 awards ceremony held in conjunction with NDAREC’s 82nd annual meeting.
“Lauren Klewin exemplifies what it means to be a cooperative leader. Dedicated, knowledgeable and deeply committed to the people and communities he served, he has left a lasting impact on North Dakota’s entire electric cooperative network. We are grateful for his leadership and the legacy he leaves behind,” says NDAREC Executive Vice President and General Manager Josh Kramer.
Klewin was selfless in devoting his time and talents in service to not only his local cooperative, but to electric cooperatives throughout the state. For 18 years, he served on NDAREC’s board of directors, and his exceptional memory and depth of knowledge made him an invaluable resource. He could provide historical context on nearly any topic related to rural electrification, and he spent a considerable amount of time mentoring and supporting his fellow board members.
Beyond the boardroom, Klewin’s compassion was evident, and his care for others made him a pillar of the community. He served three terms on Slope Electric’s Operation Round Up board, ensuring crucial funding was directed to communities, charitable organizations and members in need. Funded by members who opt to “round up” their electric bill to the next dollar, Operation Round Up demonstrates the value of working cooperatively to make a difference.
“Lauren’s contributions to his cooperative and community are a true reflection of his character – a teacher, a leader and a compassionate person who always sought to make a positive difference. His legacy will continue to resonate within Slope Electric and beyond, as his example of service, learning and leadership sets a high standard for all who follow in his footsteps,” says Angela Carlson, NDAREC board president and Slope Electric Cooperative board secretary.
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 the association’s members, which include 17 electric distribution cooperatives and five generation and transmission cooperatives.
NDAREC is the statewide trade association for 17 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, lineworker safety training, professional development, cooperative business development and communication services, including publication of the North Dakota Living magazine.