TDS founder LeRoy T. Carlson to be inducted into Independent Telecommunications Pioneer Association Telephone Hall of Fame

CHICAGO, Jan. 21, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. TDS today announced that its founder and chairman emeritus, LeRoy T. Carlson, will be inducted into the Independent Telecommunications Pioneer Association (ITPA) Telephone Hall of Fame on May 18 during the 24^th ITPA Annual Assembly in Grand Rapids, Mich.

The ITPA Telephone Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who have made outstanding contributions to the independent telecommunications industry. Carlson, age 97, founded TDS in 1969. Initially comprised of 10 small, rural, telephone companies, TDS had nearly $5.3 billion in total operating revenues for the full year 2012. Under Carlson's leadership, TDS founded its largest subsidiary, U.S. Cellular USM, in 1983. Carlson was CEO of TDS until 1986, chairman until 2002, and is currently chairman emeritus.

"Roy was a true pioneer when he founded TDS as an independent telecommunications company," said TDS President and CEO LeRoy T. Carlson, Jr. "This recognition is a testament to his lifetime of dedication to TDS and the telecommunications industry. Roy's pioneering spirit and belief in delivering excellent communications services continue to shape and drive our companies."

Carlson will be inducted into the ITPA Telephone Hall of Fame along with Clarke McRae Williams (posthumously), former president and chairman of the board of CenturyLink (formerly CenturyTel). Since 1965, the ITPA has inducted 96 honorees.

ITPA is a volunteer organization created by and for the independent telecommunications industry. Since 1920, when ITPA members helped pioneer the industry's positive introduction to America's communities, ITPA has been serving the public on behalf of telecommunications companies. Today, ITPA pioneers continue to open exciting new lines of communication and community service throughout the United States.

About TDS®
Telephone and Data Systems, Inc. (TDS), a Fortune 500® company, provides wireless; cable and wireline broadband, TV and voice; and hosted and managed services to approximately six million customers nationwide through its business units, U.S. Cellular®, TDS Telecom®, OneNeck® IT Solutions and Baja Broadband®. Founded in 1969 and headquartered in Chicago, TDS employed 10,600 people as of Sept. 30, 2013.

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SOURCE Telephone and Data Systems, Inc.