Dakota Rural Action’s long-time director, Frank James, will be stepping away from his role with the organization at the end of April.
Frank has been an integral part of DRA since he first started as a community organizer in 1992, and as staff director since 2003. In this time, Frank has brought to the organization his deep love for the state of South Dakota, a passion for protecting the land and empowering people, and his great sense of humor and humility. He has contributed to the development of countless grassroots leaders and the building of a talented staff team.
This transition will allow Frank to spend more time with his family on the farm, and he’ll be working with the Western Organization of Resource Councils on a new project to record our network’s organizing history. While we know that it will be hard to fill Frank’s boots, we wish him the best in his next stage of work and life. We look forward to celebrating Frank’s legacy and his friendship this spring.
“It’s hard to explain how important my time at Dakota Rural Action is to me. This work has proven to be my calling in life. I will continue to be involved in DRA and the work, while also exploring other interests important to me,” Frank said.
DRA will be launching a national search for our next director this week, and will count on you to help us find the next leader for our staff team. Our goal will be to hire a new director who can begin by early May, and we are confident that our board and senior staff (including Senior Organizer, Chase Jensen, and Strategic Advisor, Eowyn Corral) will lead the organization through this transition. And, Frank’s role at WORC will allow him to continue to support DRA as needed.