Being raised on a ranch in rural South Dakota was the beginning of Deon’s passion for rural areas. Deon continues to be involved with the family ranch, near Leola, SD. Although Deon’s full-time position as Department Manager of the Aviation Division for the ND Department of Transportation occupies much of his time, he never removes himself from the needs and priorities of rural America. Serving on the board of Rural Development Finance Corporation and as a committee member of Rural Electric and Telecommunications Development Center aid in fueling Deon’s passion regarding the need to have rural areas thrive and grow. He has served on the Capital Electric Cooperative board since 2009, North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives board since 2016 and RESCO board since 2025. Deon is a graduate of Northern State University and the Spartan School of Aeronautics and Technology. Deon and his wife live in the Bismarck, ND area.

Mark Litton, originally from Breckenridge, MN, has had an illustrious career spanning over 35 years in the banking industry across multiple states. He is a proud graduate of Moorehead State University, where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Finance, laying the foundation for his successful career. Mark retired in 2018 as the Executive Vice President and Chief Credit Officer of BankWest, Inc. in Pierre, SD. Mark oversaw lending, sales, and branch operations across all nine BankWest branches throughout South Dakota. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Mark has been deeply involved in various clubs and organizations, reflecting his commitment to community service. He has dedicated his time to the Optimist Club, Habitat for Humanity, and served as an Elks Member. Additionally, he took on leadership roles as the President of the Huron Community Development Corporation, Chair of the Dakota Resources Board of Directors, President of the Huron Sertoma Club, and served as a Board Member of the Huron Clinic and for Community Counseling Services. Mark’s active participation extended to his church and numerous hocky boosters clubs, underscoring his dedication to both his faith and local sports communities. In retirement, Mark continues to be a beacon of community engagement, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, service, and financial expertise that has enriched the lives of many.

Jocelyn Hovland is the Manager of Communications at Cass County Electric Cooperative, where she has served since 2005. In her role, she leads strategic communications initiatives that support member engagement, organizational outreach, and community connection. Raised on a farm and ranch, Jocelyn brings a deep understanding of rural life and a deep commitment to support thriving rural communities. Her passion for the cooperative model reflects a belief in local ownership, community investment, and collaboration as drivers of long-term rural vitality. Her work focuses on strengthening local connections and advancing initiatives that enhance the region her cooperative serves. Jocelyn earned her degree from North Dakota State University in 2007. She is actively involved in community leadership, serving on the Rural Development Finance Corporation (RDFC) board, the Cass County Historical Society board, and the Energy Share of North Dakota board. She lives in Fargo, North Dakota.

Brenna Ohman is a certified professional accountant since 2007. She has worked for North Dakota Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives for 8 years as their Finance Director. Within Ohman's role as Finance Director is working on the finances for Rural Development Finance Corporation, a North Dakota nonprofit that provides assistance to communities and local development groups to leverage project financing. Previously, Ohman was the Controller for Starion Bank. Ohman also worked as an auditor at Eide Bailly and Widmer Roel, auditing hospitals, nursing homes, and low-income apartment buildings, including apartments that were funded by New Market Tax Credits. Ohman is a graduate of North Dakota State University with a degree in Accountancy. Ohman is also served in the North Dakota National Guard for 8 years.