Local students win trip to D.C.

(FARMINGTON, MN) March 11, 2025Five local high school students were recently selected to receive an all-expense-paid trip to Washington, D.C., sponsored by Dakota Electric Association. The students will participate in the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) annual Youth Tour, scheduled for June 16-21. The students selected are:

A panel of judges selected five students from those who applied after reviewing their applications and conducting a round of interviews. “Every year, I am amazed by not only the number but also the quality of candidates who apply,” said Peggy Johnson, Dakota Electric’s community relations director. “I know our judges have difficulty narrowing the candidates down to just five.”

A panel of judges selected five students from those who applied after reviewing their applications and conducting a round of interviews. “Every year, I am amazed by not only the number but also the quality of candidates who apply,” said Peggy Johnson, Dakota Electric’s community relations director. “I know our judges have difficulty narrowing the candidates down to just five.”

Every year, over 1,800 high school students from across the United States are chosen and sponsored by their local electric cooperatives to participate in NRECA’s Electric Cooperative Youth Tour. During the week, students learn about government, electric cooperatives, and how they work together. They also have the chance to visit several monuments, memorials, and museums in Washington, D.C., while meeting members of Congress.

Dakota Electric makes applications for the Electric Cooperative Youth Tour available each January. Eligible applicants must be sophomores, juniors, or seniors currently enrolled in high school and residing within Dakota Electric’s service area. Students wanting more information can visit https://www.dakotaelectric.com/community/education-programs/.

About Dakota Electric Association:
Dakota Electric Association is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric cooperative serving over 117,000 members in and around Dakota County. Established in 1937, Dakota Electric is committed to providing its members with reliable, affordable, and sustainable electricity while actively engaging with the community and promoting energy efficiency. For more information, visit www.dakotaelectric.com or follow Dakota Electric on X, Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn.