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.
Two students are selected each year to participate in the Youth Leadership Program.
Youth Leadership Program
Each year Southern Pine Electric sponsors two high school juniors from within our service area to attend both the Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop and Washington, D.C. Youth Tour. This program is an excellent opportunity for our youth to become acquainted with electric power associations, learn how cooperatives operate within our region and sharpen their leadership skills.
The Mississippi Youth Leadership Workshop is held in Jackson, Mississippi typically in March. The Washington, D.C. Youth Tour is typically in June. High school principals and guidance counselors are encouraged to nominate two high school juniors from their school who receive electric service from Southern Pine Electric. The students submit an essay on a topic selected by Southern Pine Electric. All nominated students from our service area attend Southern Pine's Cooperative University for a day of fun and learning. Two students are selected from the group to represent Southern Pine in the ECM Youth Leadership Program.
Adopt a School
Southern Pine values our communities and works to keep them strong. One of the ways we achieve this is through the Adopt-a-School program. Every year, Southern Pine chooses a school in its service territory to support in a variety of ways. We work hand-in-hand with teachers and administrators, providing resources and participating in activities.
Southern Pine is proud to partner with Newton Elementary School this year for our Adopt-a-School program. Newton Elementary serves students in pre-k through fifth grades. The school has a total enrollment of 376 students and a dedicated team of 49 faculty and staff members. The school’s mascot, a tiger, symbolizes strength, resilience, and a shared commitment to excellence. At Newton Elementary, partnership is not merely a concept; it is a guiding principle that underscores the collaboration between educators, parents, and the community.
“Partnership means actively engaging with the school community, participating in the educational journey, and supporting initiatives that enhance the overall learning experience. I’m grateful for Southern Pine’s partnership for this school year.”
Kimberly Chapman
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.
