Summer Conference highlights economic opportunities
July 17, 2025Guest speakers provided insight on how rural communities can drive growth
Over 100 guests joined us for Heartland Energy’s annual Summer Conference on July 15 in Madison. The theme of this conference is economic development and providing tools and resources to help rural communities grow and thrive.
Our opening speaker was none other than South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden, who reminded us that partnerships are the key to great success. He highlighted his visit in a Rhoden RhoundUp video on his Facebook page.
Other speakers included Michael Bockorny of the Economic Development Professionals Association and Jared McEntaffer of Dakota Institute. Brooke Rollag, Devin Moline and Mykel Torres joined a childcare panel where they discussed how their respective communities have tackled the childcare crisis.
We hope guests walked away from our event with insights and ideas they can take back to their communities and felt energized by the connections made, the challenges explored, and the shared commitment to building stronger, more resilient rural communities.
Comradery is key
One of the best parts of the Summer Conference is the chance to mingle with other guests including Heartland customers, legislators, legislative staff, board members and more.
After the conference, guests were invited to play a round of golf where Team Malone took home the trophy.
For pictures of the conference and the golf teams, please click below.
