Franklin, TN — May 8, 2024 — FISPA, Inc. (FISPA) is thrilled to announce the appointment of new members to its Board of Directors, effective May 23, 2024. This strategic move is set to enhance the association’s mission of promoting internet advocacy, education, and networking among ISPs, while also fostering the overall growth of the internet service industry.

The newly appointed board members bring a wealth of experience, diverse perspectives, and a shared commitment to driving innovation and excellence within the sector.

Meet the New Board Members:

Darrell Brown, currently serving as the Vice President of Sales for Alternative Service Providers at Adtran, brings to the board an illustrious career that began in 2001. Under his leadership since September of 2021, his team has been instrumental in aiding over 80 companies in launching broadband services utilizing Adtran solutions. Known for his customer-first approach, Darrell has made remarkable strides in closing the digital divide with his creative problem-solving skills and a commanding knowledge of the broadband and utility industry. His dedication has been recognized with numerous accolades, including a US Patent for PON Overlay on a Legacy Optical Access Network, Salesperson of the Year for 2019, and consecutive years in the Chairman’s Club from 2020 to 2021.

“I am so grateful that the FISPA Membership selected me to serve on the Board of Directors. This is an opportunity for me to serve the entire FISPA Membership, support the Board of Directors and Dawna Qualls, and the industry. I will use my knowledge, experience, leadership, and drive to evaluate opportunities and challenges related to broadband deployment throughout the United States and help the FISPA community to continue to elevate and succeed,” said Darrell Brown.

Gene Crusie, CEO of Surf Internet, has had a formidable career in the broadband industry since the 1990s. Under his leadership, Surf Internet has grown to a force in the fiber home operator sector, spanning over 140,000 passings across Indiana, Michigan, and Illinois. Gene’s commitment to bridging the digital divide is evident in the company securing over $40 million in grants in the past 24 months alone. With a track record of insightful contributions at numerous telecom events and recognitions including the JA Hall of Fame for technology and “40 under 40”, Gene is a true visionary in the industry.

“I am very excited to join the FISPA board with the hopes of making a small contribution to this amazing industry,” shared Gene Crusie. “We’re shaping the network of the future for our country and our world.”

“We are delighted to welcome our new board members,” said Jack Cathey, President of FISPA. “Their collective expertise, industry knowledge, and passion for technology innovation make them an invaluable asset to our team. Together, we are poised to address the challenges and opportunities ahead, fostering a more connected world.”

The new board members will be officially introduced at the upcoming FISPA Annual Meeting, scheduled for August 2024, where they will outline their vision and strategic goals for the association’s future.

FISPA is committed to supporting its members through advocacy, education, and networking, ensuring the internet service industry continues to thrive and advance in an increasingly digital world.