MEET RALPH NEU, President of DRN’s Board of Directors
DRN is celebrating 75 years as a Cooperative! Since 1950, DRN has shown innovation, dedication, and support to local communities. We want to give you a VIP ticket to our Board of Directors… we asked them a few questions so that you can get to know more about DRN and a little bit about each member of our board. Starting off, we introduce Ralph Neu, President of DRN’s Board of Directors!
What inspired you to become a board member, and how long have you served on the Board of Directors?
“I became a board member on October 30, 2006. Having previously served on other boards, including some co-op boards, I had an interest and was encouraged by former board member, Oscar Rau.”
What has been your most rewarding experience in this role?
“There have been many but being part of the Board of directors of the most future-minded co-op in North Dakota and possibly the United States is very exciting and rewarding. Additionally, having all members connected to fiber for many years is very rewarding for me.”
What technology deployed by DRN has had the largest impact on you personally?
“Deployment of fiber to all members.”
In your opinion, what technology deployed by DRN has had the largest impact on our customers?
“In the beginning, the phone line must have been a huge impact to all Cooperative members and the fiber deployment to all of our customers.”
What role do you believe the Cooperative plays in the local community today?
“DRN has a huge impact in our local communities. The co-op employs many people with good jobs and promising careers. DRN also donates to many charitable organizations and non-profit community projects. DRN awards 2 scholarships to high school seniors in every high school in our service area.”
In your eyes, how has DRN evolved over the past 75 years?
“From the beginning of the party-line telephone systems to the completion of fiber to the home, I believe DRN has always been at the cutting edge of technology and has always strived for great customer service. Always being customer focused is the Cooperative way.”
What is your favorite memory of being on the Board of Directors?
“When attending state or national meetings, it’s always special to see how advanced DRN is in the industry compared to other companies in the nation.”
What do you enjoy most about being a board member?
“Being able to serve all the members of DRN, not just the people in my district. It has been an honor and privilege to be president for the past 12 years.”
As DRN celebrates 75 years of innovation and community service, leaders like Ralph Neu remind us of what makes our Cooperative truly special – vision, dedication, and a deep-rooted commitment to our members. Our Board of Directors’ leadership and passion for progress has helped shape DRN into the forward-thinking organization it is today. Stay tuned as we continue to introduce more of the incredible individuals who guide DRN’s mission and values. Here’s to the next 75 years of connection, community, and Cooperative spirit.