After a nationwide search, the EnerStar Electric Cooperative board of directors has appointed Paris-native Angela Griffin as the next Chief Executive Officer. She will succeed Dave Clinton, who is retiring at the end of the year. Clinton joined the cooperative in 2018 as Chief Financial Officer and has served as Chief Executive Officer since 2022. The change was effective November 1.

Griffin has over 35 years of diverse experience in the cooperative sector. She graduated from Indiana State University and has held various positions at the co-op, particularly in member services and communications. In 2016, Griffin completed the National Rural Electric Cooperative's Management Internship Program at the University of Wisconsin and has since participated in ongoing co-op training at the state and national levels. Throughout her career, she has served on numerous local non-profit boards. She currently serves on the board of directors for the Paris Economic Development Corporation.

"During my interview, one question asked was, "Which of the seven cooperative principles is most important to you?" While I value all of them, Commitment to Community stands out the most to me," said Griffin. "I take great pride in our local co-op roots, our dedication to the communities we serve, and the co-op member-owners." Griffin added that most co-op employees work here and live here. They are equally committed to serving our co-op membership.

Griffin explained that the electric utility is rapidly evolving. Alongside this transformation, the cooperative has experienced several changes, including many employee retirements. She credited the strong management team under Clinton's leadership for leading the cooperative through this period by focusing on training and developing a long-term strategic plan.

One significant project underway at the cooperative is installing a new metering system. "Our existing metering system has exceeded its expected lifespan and has saved us money, but it now requires an update due to software compatibility issues and challenges in sourcing replacement parts," said Griffin. "What's exciting is that the new system will enhance the cooperative's operations and improve member services." Griffin explained it would improve reliability, enhance outage communications, and enable the cooperative to offer incentive rates for load shifting, giving members more control of their energy dollars.

Griffin emphasized that the co-op's members can rely on its core values. "Safety, stability, and member service will always be our top priorities," Griffin concluded.