Minnesota Power honors volunteerism

Minnesota Power Foundation presented the first Don Shippar Community Leadership Award at ALLETE’s Annual Meeting today at the Duluth Entertainment Convention Center in Duluth. The award recognizes company employees whose leadership in volunteering and service has made an impact on their local communities.

The award, which will be issued annually, was established this year in honor of former ALLETE Chief Executive Officer Don Shippar who retired April 30, 2010.

Shippar’s 33-year career was marked by a strong commitment to giving back to the communities Minnesota Power serves. Among his many professional and philanthropic contributions, Shippar also established the Minnesota Power Foundation in 2006. The Foundation reinforces a long-standing tradition of corporate giving through supporting charitable organizations that help create and sustain healthy communities. The foundation’s mission focuses on education, arts, culture, and preserving our natural resources.

This year, Tom Lohman, a Sr. Engineer at Minnesota Power’s Rowe Energy Control Center is the honored recipient of the Don Shippar Community Leadership Award.

Lohman demonstrates a compassionate and generous commitment to going the extra mile. Through his dedicated volunteerism, he has affected the lives of many. Through CHUM, he has helped provide hot meals and shelter for those who are out on the streets. His donations to the St. Luke’s Foundation have helped those dealing with cancer by improving the facility where they receive care that is so critical to their battle. And, he shows his devotion to the community as he gives his time to help fix homes through Community Action’s Circles of Support.

Two employees also received honorable mentions for their volunteer work. Pat Connell, Public Affairs Administrative Supervisor and Brian Schmidt, Rapids Energy Center Operator.

Connell is a long time United Way volunteer. She has served as a United Way Campaign Executive for 8 years; has served on the fund distribution panel, and has helped with numerous United Way fundraisers over the years.

Schmidt volunteers to promote community awareness of the programs offered through the Shriners hospital. Brian has devoted hours to raising awareness and visibility for the services provided by the hospital. He provides information to families of children with childhood illnesses. He is captain of the local cycle patrol participating in parades and special events throughout the year.

ALLETE Chairman of the Board Don Shippar presented the three recipients with a crystal award and ALLETE president and chief executive officer Al Hodnik presented a donation to each for the nonprofit organization of their choice.

“I am truly impressed by the extraordinary efforts and generous spirit exhibited by Tom, Pat and Brian,” said ALLETE president & chief executive officer Al Hodnik. “They are a shining example of how one volunteer has the power to change a community. Congratulations to all three, for setting a wonderful example for others and for carrying on the legacy of Don Shippar.”

Tags: minnesota power, news, superior, business