Author: Katie Jagiello

In her submission essay, DeWitt writes, “Earning a law degree will allow me to give back to my community in a substantial way. I love to raise others up and create a positive living and learning environment for others. DeWitt volunteers with various organizations including the UWGB Campus Cupboard (provides free food and clothing), Forest to Brooks Enrichment (serves youth with special needs), and Run for the Trails (annual race to fund a public trail.) She became interested in law while advocating against the takeover of family farms by industrial farms.

In recommending her for the scholarship, Dr. Nolan Bennett, assistant professor in the political science department at UW-Green Bay wrote, “Ember is a thoughtful, determined student with a driven desire to help others through law. Based on my evaluation of her intellectual capacity and empathetic approach to legal study, I strongly recommend Ember for your scholarship.”

Assistant Dean of Students Katie Morois wrote, “Ember played an integral role in our campus community, consistently exhibiting a strong sense of responsibility, initiative, and genuine passion for fostering positive change.”

DeWitt has not decided what area of law to pursue, but says she is interested in cooperative law. Her goal is to attend law school at Marquette or UW-Madison after graduation.

Congratulations Ember!

Oconto Falls, Wis. (March 28, 2024) — The Board of Directors for Oconto Electric Cooperative (OEC) is pleased to announce the appointment of Ryan Miller, as OEC’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO). Miller will assume his role on April 10, following the retirement of Byron Nolde.

“We are delighted to welcome Miller as the next CEO of OEC,” said Todd Duame, board chairman. “After a nationwide search, the board of directors decided Ryan Miller was the best candidate to be the next great leader for OEC, so that we can continue providing affordable and reliable electricity to our consumer members.”

Miller grew up in the electrical industry working in his family’s high-voltage electrical construction company. He has also worked as a substation operations manager. He currently serves as the Chief Operating Officer of Southland Utility Services, a wholly owned subsidiary of Choctawhatchee Electric Cooperative (CHELCO) where he oversees the day-to-day operations. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Business Information Systems, a Master’s in Business Administration (MBA), and a certificate in utility management from Willamette University. 

Nolde has served as manager and CEO of Oconto Electric Coop­erative for the past 20 years, making him one of the longest serving CEO’s of OEC. “We appreciate all that Byron has contributed to the success of the cooperative,” said Duame. “We look forward to Miller’s deep understanding of the energy industry and that he will continue to build on the strong foundation we have and guide the cooperative towards a successful future.”