November 1, 2021 Cooperative University
Pearl River Valley Electric Hosts Cooperative University
Columbia- Pearl River Valley Electric recently held its first Cooperative University at the Columbia National Guard Armory on October 26, 2021. 19 Students from 10 high schools within PRVEPA’s service territory participated in a day long event that highlighted electric cooperatives, how electricity is produced and leadership skills. Students were also interviewed for a chance to participate in the Electric Cooperative’s of Mississippi Youth Leadership Program which includes a weeklong trip to Washington D.C.
“ This event helped students understand the important role electric cooperatives like Pearl River Valley Electric play in the communities they serve,” said CEO/General Manager Matthew Ware. “We are very proud of the exceptional students that exist within our service territory.”
The two students that were chosen to represent Pearl River Valley Electric were Abigail Hammons and Connor Gibson from Oak Grove High School.
Abigail is the daughter of Mark and Amanda Hammons. She is active in the Oak Grove Warrior Band and is a member of the Key Club, the Beta Club, and the Spanish Club. She volunteers her time at Immanuel Baptist Church, helping with youth groups and for children’s church.
Connor Gibson is the son of Ronnie and Jennifer Gibson. He is active in politics and has helped various candidate’s campaigns and serves as the state chairman for the Mississippi Teenage Republicans. He is also a staff member for the Oak Grove High School yearbook. He has also served as the president for the National Junior Honor Society.
Pearl River Valley Electric has participated in the Youth Leadership Program from the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi for 35 years.
Pearl River Valley Electric is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative that distributes electricity to more than 51,000 members in 12-counties in central and south Mississippi. It is headquartered in Columbia and has offices in Hattiesburg, Purvis, and Wiggins.
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