By Nebraska Public Power District
COLUMBUS, Neb. – The Nebraska Public Power District (NPPD) board of directors elected officers during Wednesday’s regularly scheduled meeting in Columbus.
Elected officers will serve in their roles for a two-year term. Wayne Williams of Central City was elected to serve as the chair of NPPD’s board, while Derek Rusher of Kearney was elected to serve as first vice chair, Chris Langemeier of Schuyler will serve as second vice chair, and Jerry Chlopek of Columbus was elected to serve as secretary. NPPD Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer Laura Kapustka will continue to serve as treasurer.
“It is a privilege to serve as chair, and I’m looking forward to the year ahead as our board continues working to bring the best of public power to our customers,” said Williams.
Williams has served on the NPPD board since 2021 and represents Subdivision 7, which consists of all or parts of Adams, Clay, Fillmore, Hamilton, Jefferson, Merrick, Nance, Nuckolls, Thayer and Webster Counties. Previously serving as first vice chair in 2023-2025 and as secretary in 2022. Williams’ career in the power industry spans over 40 years, currently as Chief Executive Officer and founder of ISI Solar / Interconnection Systems. He also worked for NPPD in the Project Management Office, and has been heavily involved in the design, procurement, and construction of gas, wind, coal, fuel oil and solar energy facilities on three continents.
“I’m thankful for the service and guidance Director Chlopek provided during his tenure as board chair these past four years, and I look forward to working alongside Directors Williams, Rusher and Langemeier as they step into their new roles as officers for the board,” added NPPD President and CEO Tom Kent.
The Board of Directors also appointed Cristal Menke as assistant treasurer, and Christopher Norquest as deputy assistant treasurer. Jan Modelski was re-appointed as assistant secretary, and Donna Jaixen as deputy assistant secretary. All are from Columbus.