Community Broadband Action Network Appoints Curtis Dean as First Full-Time Executive Director

Community Broadband Action Network Appoints Curtis Dean as First Full-Time Executive Director

[West Des Moines, IA] – December 22, 2024 – The Community Broadband Action Network Corporation (CBAN) today announced that its Board of Directors has selected Curtis Dean to serve as the organization’s first full-time Executive Director. Dean, who co-founded CBAN alongside Jon Willow and Todd Kielkopf, has served as the organization’s volunteer Executive Director since May 2024. He will begin his full-time duties on January 1, 2026.

The appointment marks a significant milestone for CBAN, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting universal broadband access, digital equity, and community broadband solutions across the United States. Under the mission “Building Broadband Bridges,” CBAN has grown to serve over 240 members spanning 38 states and multiple countries.

“I am excited to be able to devote my full time and attention to CBAN and supporting our members nationwide,” said Curtis Dean. “The work they are doing, and that we are supporting, is vital to getting better broadband to more Americans and empowering everyone to adopt technology and internet.”

“The Board of Directors is absolutely thrilled to welcome Curtis Dean as our founding Executive Director,” says Deb Socia, CBAN Board of Directors Acting President. “He brings a wealth of experience in local broadband infrastructure and adoption, as well as a deep passion for our mission. We are confident that under his leadership, CBAN will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on our community.”

As Executive Director, Dean will oversee CBAN’s expanding portfolio of initiatives, including policy engagement, industry intelligence services, and direct consulting support to governmental entities implementing broadband deployment programs. His appointment comes at a critical time as communities nationwide work to leverage federal and state funding opportunities to close the digital divide.

Dean brings 25 years of specialized experience in community-focused broadband networks to the role. His leadership has been instrumental in establishing CBAN’s tiered membership structure, developing strategic partnerships with internet service providers and communities, and creating frameworks for effective collaboration between public and private sector stakeholders.

The transition to full-time leadership reflects CBAN’s growth and the increasing demand for its services as communities seek guidance on broadband expansion initiatives, including implementation of the Broadband Equity, Access, and Deployment (BEAD) program and other federal infrastructure investments.

CBAN’s Board of Directors conducted a thorough evaluation before confirming Dean’s appointment, recognizing his proven track record in advancing the organization’s mission and his deep understanding of the complex landscape of broadband deployment and digital equity initiatives.

About Community Broadband Action Network Corporation

The Community Broadband Action Network Corporation (CBAN) is a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization incorporated in Iowa and dedicated to promoting universal broadband access and digital equity. Through its nationwide network of members, CBAN provides policy advocacy, industry intelligence, collaboration frameworks, and consulting services to advance community broadband solutions. For more information, visit broadbandaction.com.