Southern Pine Electric recently welcomed 54 high school juniors from 30 schools across its 11-county service area to participate in its annual Cooperative University.
These students, nominated by their school counselors for their outstanding leadership potential, gathered to explore the role of electric cooperatives, learn about electrical safety, and engage in dynamic leadership- building activities.
As part of the program, students also had the unique opportunity to meet with local legislators, posing thoughtful questions about the issues that matter most to their communities. At the conclusion of the event, 12 students were invited to return for interviews, competing for the coveted positions of Southern Pine’s 2025 Youth Leaders.
“Beyond delivering safe, reliable, and affordable electricity, one of our greatest responsibilities is investing in the next generation of leaders,” said Chris Rhodes, president and CEO of Southern Pine Electric. “Seeing the talent, drive, and vision of these students gives me tremendous confidence in the future of our communities.”
A panel of independent judges selected six exceptional students as Southern Pine’s 2025 Youth Leaders:
- Corrine Allen, Mendenhall High School
- Addison Barry, Simpson County Academy
- Brenna Lintner-Davis, Raleigh High School
- Tyson McLaurin, Jefferson Davis County High School
- Jayden Smith, Simpson County Academy
- Macie Morrow, Puckett High School
These outstanding young leaders will represent Southern Pine Electric in the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi’s (ECM) Youth Leadership Program. Their journey begins with a leadership workshop in Jackson this spring and culminates in the summer with ECM’s prestigious Youth Tour in Washington, D.C.
Southern Pine Electric is a member-owned, not-for-profit cooperative that distributes electricity to more than 70,000 members in 11 counties in central and south Mississippi. It is headquartered in Taylorsville and has offices in Brandon, Newton, Hattiesburg, and New Hebron.
