The electric utility industry is evolving rapidly, creating new challenges for electric cooperatives. As a result, the role of member-owners who serve on cooperative boards has never been more important. Their decisions help shape the future of the co-op, making a strong understanding of the industry, governance, and cooperative principles essential.

The National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) plays a vital role in meeting this educational need. Representing more than 900 member-owned electric cooperatives that serve 42 million people across 47 states, NRECA provides a wide range of educational opportunities for both cooperative employees and board members.

We are proud to announce that Julie Higginbotham of Martinsville is the latest recipient of national director certification.

NRECA director education is offered in three progressive levels, ranging from foundational to advanced coursework. Topics include director duties and responsibilities, understanding the electric utility business, strategic planning, and financial decision-making.

Julie recently completed the foundational coursework to earn the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) certificate. She joins fellow board members Jeff Murphy of Marshall, Dan Gard of West Union, and Jeff Zimmerman of Oakland who have also earned this distinction. Kevin Julian of Metcalf and Granville Colvin have achieved both the Director Gold Certificate and the Board Leadership Certificate.

We are proud to have such strong leadership guiding our cooperative and appreciate the dedication these directors show in serving our member-owners and the communities we serve.