As we settle into the warmth of spring, KREMC is buzzing with excitement. It’s a time for us to reaffirm our commitment to community and, importantly, our cooperative values. With the Annual Meeting just around the corner, we are reminded of the particular significance of one co-op value — democratic member control — in shaping the future of our cooperative.

In this issue of Indiana Connection magazine, you will find biographies of the candidates vying for positions on our esteemed board of directors. These individuals represent the diverse perspectives and interests within our membership, and I urge you to familiarize yourself with their backgrounds as you prepare to cast your vote at the Annual Meeting on June 13. Our cooperative thrives on the active participation of its members, and your voice matters.

Adding to the excitement in the air is the recognition of our team at the Spotlight on Excellence Awards in Baltimore, Maryland. The Spotlight on Excellence Awards is an initiative by the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) that recognizes exceptional work produced by electric cooperative communication and marketing professionals across the country. Our team has earned three gold awards (the highest honor) in our classification for the following projects: Kosciusko REMC 2023 Annual Meeting — Best External Event; Kosciusko Connect Connected Conversations Podcast — Most Innovative Use of Digital Engagement; and Kosciusko Connect Halloween Social Media Campaign — Best Social Media Campaign.

While the practical aspects of providing reliable electricity remain at the forefront of our operations, it is the focus on our membership and the consistent team effort to strive for excellence that truly distinguishes us from investor-owned utilities. As we race toward our Annual Meeting and all the activity the season brings, let’s take a moment to celebrate our connections, our values, and our accomplishments.