WASHINGTON, D.C.—Womble Bond Dickinson telecom lawyer Carri Bennet has been elected Vice President of the Foundation for Rural Service’s Board of Directors. Bennet previously served as Secretary-Treasurer of the Board.

The Foundation for Rural Service (FRS) works to enhance the quality of life in America by advancing an understanding of rural issues. FRS was established in 1994 as a non-profit 501(c)(3) by NTCA–The Rural Broadband Association and plays a unique role within the telecommunications industry by supporting rural telecom companies, consumers, and policymakers with educational information, products, and programming.

FRS offers programs to help rural youth develop into community leaders and grants to improve the quality of life in rural communities. The organization also hosts an annual tour for Congressional staffers to leave D.C. and visit a rural area of America.

“FRS and NTCA work hard to ensure that rural voices are heard in the national dialogue on telecom and broadband issues,” Bennet said. “I am honored to help lead FRS as it continues this vital mission of bringing broadband services to rural citizens. By deploying broadband in rural America where our natural resources and agricultural production reside means more efficiency in bringing these resources to urban America.  Broadband is the key to strengthening all of America.”

Carri Bennet has more than three decades of experience representing wireline, wireless and broadband communications providers, as well as commercial and noncommercial broadcasters, in regulatory compliance matters. She has a particular focus on advocating for small rural carriers, including serving as General Counsel to the Rural Wireless Association. Bennet represents telecom industry clients before the FCC, state regulatory agencies, the courts, and Congress.