The Power of Knowledge
Investing in our community is about more than just infrastructure and that’s why we partner with local schools to offer more opportunities to our youth.
Cooperative University
Southern Pine's Cooperative University, held in December, is a fun-filled day for high school juniors within the 11 county service area. These future leaders are nominated by their high school counselors to attend because they demonstrate leadership abilities in their schools. Students participate in interactive leadership activities, learn about electric cooperatives, electric vehicles, learn from Southern Pine linemen and safety experts, and tour dispatch.
Six students are selected each year to continue on in the Cooperative Youth Leaders program.
Cooperative Youth Leaders
Each year, Southern Pine Electric invites two high school students—nominated by their school or CTE counselors—to take the first step in the Cooperative Youth Leaders program. Students selected for this opportunity learn about Southern Pine, the cooperative business model, electric safety, and foundational leadership skills.
From this group, six students are chosen to continue in the Cooperative Youth Leaders program, coordinated by Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. These students attend the Cooperative Youth Leaders Workshop in Jackson, where they strengthen their leadership abilities, tour the State Capitol, meet with legislators, and connect with other high school juniors from across Mississippi.
In June, these young leaders travel to Washington, D.C. for the experience of a lifetime. The Cooperative Youth Tour is a week packed with unforgettable moments—from visits to the White House and Capitol to evenings at the Kennedy Center and tours of historic monuments and museums. It’s an inspiring, eye-opening journey that helps shape tomorrow’s leaders.
To be eligible for the Cooperative Youth Leaders program, students must live in a household that receives electric service from Southern Pine and be nominated by their high school or CTE counselor. Homeschooled students are also welcome to apply.
Adopt a School
McLaurin Elementary School, located in Florence, Mississippi, is part of the Rankin County School District and is recognized as a Mississippi Military Star School. The school serves a diverse student body and emphasizes a strong academic focus, bolstered by community support and engagement. Located at 2693 Star Road, McLaurin Elementary emphasizes both safety and student success and provides a nurturing environment for elementary learners.
Southern Pine Electric is proud to serve as McLaurin Elementary School’s Adopt-a-School partner for the 2025 calendar year. Through this partnership, Southern Pine is committed to supporting students, teachers, and staff by investing time, resources, and encouragement throughout the school year. As a cooperative rooted in community values, Southern Pine believes in empowering the next generation and strengthening the schools that help shape the future of our communities.
Scholarship Program
Scholarships are available through the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi to juniors and seniors in college who are enrolled in engineering programs. Four $5,000 scholarships are awarded each year.
Please contact Donna Richmond at richmond@ecm.coop for more information.
