CEO’s Message – July/August 2025

Hearts & Home

Making Connections That Matter

Lee Chambers
CEO/General Manager

I always enjoy these long, sunny days, which are perfect for slowing down and spending time with the people who matter most. It’s an opportunity to unplug and enjoy the outdoors, and at Sandhill, we believe the communications services we provide can help connect us in person and online.

As we approach our 75th anniversary next year, I’m reminded why we’re more than just a telecommunications company. We are a community lifeline, and I want to share a few thoughts about where we’ve been and where we’re going.

Our fiber expansion has been nothing short of remarkable. We’ve invested $5.7 million this past year, bringing a fiber optic network to more than 75% of the people who rely on this service. But numbers only tell part of the story. What really matters is how these connections transform lives by enabling remote work, distance learning, and keeping families connected in ways we once couldn’t have imagined.

This past year has been a testament to our commitment. We’ve not only installed fiber but also built a network that can handle the increasing demands of modern communication, ensuring our community stays at the technological forefront. We strive to do more than keep up with technology. We work to stay ahead.

But communication services are just 1 part of our mission. Our roots run deep in this community. When our founders established this cooperative in 1951, they understood the crucial fact that local service matters. We’re not just another faceless corporation. We’re your neighbors and friends. Our team lives here, and we’re raising our families here. We also strive to always give back.

We support local schools, youth sports, emergency services, and many nonprofits in the county. Many of our employees volunteer their personal time coaching Little League, assisting fire departments, supporting local churches, and more. Serving local isn’t a marketing slogan— it’s our way of life.

I’d be remiss if I didn’t mention a rapidly changing and profoundly impactful new technology— artificial intelligence. In just 12 months, AI has advanced in previously unimaginable ways. While this might seem intimidating, we see it as an opportunity. We’re positioning ourselves to support local businesses as they navigate these new technologies, including by offering advanced voice communications services as well as networking tools and advanced security options.

Change is inevitable. Where we once had general stores and 5-and-dimes, we now have chain retailers. Our community evolves, and so do we. As we approach our milestone 75th anniversary, we’re committed to being your trusted technology partner.

As always, thank you for allowing us to serve you and to be a part of this wonderful place we call home.