In one of the most notable inaugural speeches given, John F. Kennedy spoke his famous words, “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country.” His inspiring words urged Americans to take actions that benefited the greater good. In essence, Kennedy was saying our country thrives when we all contribute our talents to the common good. 

On a smaller scale, I think the same can be said about our co-op, specifically with regard to our board members. Victory’s board members are community-minded individuals with a variety of skill sets. Our board is made up of farmers, business owners, executives, and educators. We rely on their many talents to help us make informed decisions on long-term priorities and investments. Our directors live right here in the co-op’s service area, and we consider them the eyes and ears of the community because they provide their perspective on important community issues. We recognize it takes many people with different skills to create a well-rounded board that can represent the full spectrum of our community.

Serving on Victory’s board means you’re making a difference locally, using your individual talents and perspective to guide big decisions about the co-op that in turn benefit the larger community. While day-to-day decisions are made by co-op staff, major decisions are made by the board, whose mission is to look out for the vitality of the co-op and the community it serves. On a granular level, Victory’s board members typically provide input and guidance on:

• Budgets
• Co-op goals and direction
• Co-op’s community/charitable contributions.
• Capital investments and upgrades in equipment and technology.
• Renewable investments and energy mix.
• Co-op’s role and involvement in economic development.

In addition, Victory’s board members also serve as representatives at the state and national level by representing Victory on the Kansas Electric Cooperative board of trustees, Sunflower board of trustees, as well as the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association board of directors. 

The energy industry is undergoing a major transition. Technology advancements and increased consumer preference for more renewable energy is driving change. Victory is facing big decisions, and board members have an opportunity to help chart a course for our future. To serve the community best, we need input from a wide range of people that represent the broad spectrum of views within the communities we serve. 

While you don’t need to be an expert in electricity or business to run, you do need to have a passion for the community and a willingness to actively serve and learn. Our board meets on a regular basis, and we offer specialized training opportunities to help board members make informed decisions. Board members gain a deeper understanding of the electric utility industry, the cooperative business model, and local economic development efforts. 

Ultimately, our board is the community pulse for the co-op and helps keep us on the right track. We love our community and want to do our part to help it thrive, now and into the future.

Thanks,

Shane