Phil Carson of Oakdale was elected Secretary-Treasurer of the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) at its annual meeting in New Orleans, La. on Feb. 20, 2013. This is the first time Illinois has had one of its directors elected to a national leadership position.
The NRECA is the national service organization that represents the nation’s more than 900 not-for-profit, member-owned electric cooperatives. These locally-owned cooperatives generate, transmit and distribute electricity to the homes, farms and businesses of 42 million members in 47 states.
Carson has been a director at Tri-County Electric Cooperative in Mt. Vernon since 1998 and has served on the NRECA board since 2006. In addition, he is a director for Egyptian Telephone Cooperative Association, Southern Illinois Power Cooperative, and the Association of Illinois Electric Cooperatives (AIEC). Carson is a former dairy farmer who retains an interest in a 160-year old farm, and pastor at First Presbyterian Church in Nashville.
Following his election, Carson told the board, “We’ve got a lot of challenges ahead of us, and also a lot of opportunities.”
Duane Noland, President/CEO of the AIEC, upon hearing the election results remarked, “I am pleased the NRECA board recognized Phil’s passion to serve electric cooperatives both in Illinois and nationally, and elected him as their secretary-treasurer. Phil is highly respected for his integrity and insight and he takes his responsibilities seriously. On behalf of the entire community of electric cooperatives in our state, we congratulate him on this honor.”
Tri-County Electric Cooperative, Inc. General Manager, Marcia Scott says, “Phil is an outstanding director. He studies to prepare himself for important discussions and decisions. It comes as no surprise to me that the NRECA board of directors would recognize the value he brings to their board and would elect him an officer of their board. Phil never forgets who he represents and that he is there to serve the members.”
Tri-County Electric Cooperative is a member of Touchstone Energy — an alliance of more than 720 local, consumer-owned electric utilities around the country. Tri-County Electric is committed to providing superior service based on four core principles: integrity, accountability, innovation and commitment to community. The co-op serves more than 15,945 meters over 3,364 miles of line in parts of Franklin, Jefferson, Marion, Perry and Washington counties. For more information visit www.tricountycoop.com.