SAN DIEGO — CEOs representing co-ops from Michigan and Missouri were recognized for their contribution to international development today. Mark Kappler, general manager of HomeWorks Tri-County Electric Cooperative, and Chris Hamon, CEO of White River Valley Electric Cooperative, received the 2016 International Award from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).
“Mark and Chris are visionary leaders who deeply understand the most fundamental cooperative spirit—to contribute to the development of rural electrification in underserved areas,” said NRECA President Mel Coleman. “They both serve as inspirations to us all – with Mark driving the successful Michigan volunteer mission to bring electricity to a Guatemalan village, and Chris working to bring power to people in Haiti. The time and effort invested by both, is proof that the cooperative spirit is alive and strong, and that our concern for community has no boundaries.”
The International Award recognizes exceptional dedication to the development of international communities through electrification, cooperative development and global commitment.
More than 5,500 representatives from electric co-ops across the nation are attending NRECA’s Annual Meeting celebrating its 75th Anniversary. The meeting runs from Feb. 23 through Mar. 1 in San Diego and sets NRECA’s legislative and organizational agenda for 2017. Co-op representatives also hear from NRECA officials, key public figures and business experts about issues affecting electric cooperatives and their consumer members. The Annual Meeting is held in conjunction with TechAdvantage, a technology learning event and expo that features more than 280 exhibitors showcasing their state-of-the-art technologies, equipment and services.
The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association is the national service organization that represents the nation’s more than 900 not-for-profit, consumer-owned electric cooperatives, which provide service to 42 million people in 47 states.
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