Daniel Knutson Named as Southeastern Electric Finalist in Regional Who Powers You Contest
Daniel Knutson is an active member of the Centerville community and impacts many organizations in positive ways. His selfless dedication is what earned him recognition as a Southeastern Electric finalist in the fourth annual regional Who Powers You contest.
“Just as rural electrification and grain merchandising developed generations ago, Mr. Knutson has adopted a cooperative mindset that leverages his talents to benefit all those around him,” wrote Darrell Mark, a neighbor who nominated Knutson for the contest. “Mr. Knutson doesn’t just power himself. Or his family. Or his church. Or his community. Daniel Knutson is Who Powers Us All.”
Who Powers You is an exciting contest hosted by the region’s Touchstone Energy Cooperatives to highlight local figures who are making a difference in their communities.
Knutson is a local seed dealer and owns and operates a farming operation in rural Centerville with his brother. He excels at machinery mechanics and repairs and generously shares those talents with his friends and neighbors. Some of his most noticeable contributions to the community are through Centerville’s Scandia Lutheran Church.
“I’ve been a lifelong member of the church and currently serve as the president of the council,” shared Knutson. As an active member of the church, Knutson leads the team responsible for ministry, staffing, budgeting and property. He also assists with repairs and other church improvements, such as installing the new control booth for the audio-visual equipment. Knutson is responsible for the livestream ministry and sings in the choir.
When asked about a project he is particularly proud of, Knutson shared, “I really enjoy volunteering with the Living Last Supper program. I know this event brings a positive impact to our communities and we are making a difference in people’s lives.”
Knutson also volunteers at the Centerville school, the Centerville Art Council’s Christmas event, the local FFA chapter and is always looking for ways he can serve his community.
“It’s an honor to be nominated,” smiled Knutson. “It was very unexpected, and I don’t volunteer for the recognition, I just want to make a difference and help where I can. I hope that through this contest it will raise awareness and inspire other people to volunteer in their communities.”
Knutson’s story was featured on Keloland Living on March 13. A recap of the segment is also available on the contest’s webpage at www.WhoPowersYouContest.com.
Three final winners will be selected by a panel of judges based on the impact that they have on the community. Weekly finalists will be announced and featured on Keloland Living and the three contest winners will be announced on Keloland Living on May 22, 2025. The Who Powers You contest grand prize winner will receive a $3,000 prize. A second place winner will receive $1,500 and the contest’s third place winner will receive $500.