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COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. — The Cooperative Communicators Association (CCA) recognized three distinguished individuals for excellence in communication and leadership during its annual institute, held June 1–3, 2025, in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Chellie Phillips, vice president of communications and public relations at Coweta-Fayette EMC, based in Palmetto, Ga., was honored with the 2025 H.E. Klinefelter Award. Since 1959, the award has recognized cooperative communicators whose work is deemed outstanding by their peers.

A nationally recognized speaker, best-selling author, and corporate trainer, Phillips has published multiple books on corporate culture, communication, and professional growth. Her work has been featured at national conferences, corporate workshops and on more than 50 podcasts, reinforcing her role as a leading voice in the cooperative-communicator community.

The nomination stated, “For more than 25 years, Chellie Phillips has been a trailblazer in cooperative communications, never content with the status quo. Her career has been defined by innovation, strategic vision, and a relentless commitment to enhancing member engagement and satisfaction for multiple electric cooperatives. Chellie is more than a communications expert—she is a visionary leader, an innovator, and a passionate advocate for cooperative excellence.”

Jeremy Nelms, CEO of Flint Energies, Reynolds, Ga., received the 2025 CEO Communicator Award. The award, established in 1992, honors cooperative leaders who demonstrate a strong commitment to open and strategic communication.

“When Jeremy joined Flint Energies, not only did he have big shoes to fill, he had to do so under extremely challenging conditions,” said April Bragg, president of the Robins Regional Chamber. “Arriving in the midst of the pandemic, he immediately exhibited his dedication to fostering impactful connections and solving pressing challenges. His actions not only upheld the cooperative principles of Flint Energies but also exemplified strategic and compassionate leadership that set a high standard.”

Cathy Statz, outreach specialist for International Centre for Cooperative Management, based in Canada, was named the 2025 CCA Outstanding Leader. The award recognizes members who have demonstrated exceptional leadership within the organization.

In addition to these top honors, CCA celebrated winners of the annual CCA Communications Contest, which highlights excellence in writing, photography, graphic design, digital media, and overall communication strategy among cooperative communicators.

Ryan Craig, “Kentucky Living” with Kentucky Electric Cooperatives, Louisville, Ky., was recognized for writing best of show. Photography best of show was presented to Adam Hester through CHS, Inc., Inver Grove Heights, Minn. Based in North Plains, Ore., the team at Pioneer Utility Resources won best of show in programs and projects with “The StoryConnect” podcast. Finally, best of show in the publications category was awarded to Anitra Ellison, GreyStone Power, Hiram, Ga., for her “Connect” newsletter.

Next year’s CCA Institute will take place in Chattanooga, Tenn., May 31-June 2, 2026.

CCA exists to improve the effectiveness of all cooperative communicators; advance professional standards; and exchange facts, research, techniques, and opinions among cooperative communicators. Board members for the 2024-2025 business year, and their home cooperatives: Cliff Dolbeare, president, GROWMARK, Inc., Bloomington, Ill.; Dori Lichty, vice president, CentralStar Cooperative, Waupun, Wis.; Kelly Jimenez, secretary-treasurer, Carroll EMC, Carrollton, Ga.; Adam Buckallew, MFA Oil Company, Columbia, Mo.; Jennie Lacey, Roberta, Ga.; Anne Baehnman, URUS Group LP, Madison, Wis.; Brianna Wall, Oklahoma Electric Cooperative, Norman, Okla.; Hayley Leatherwood, Oklahoma Association of Electric Cooperatives, Oklahoma City, Okla.; and Mallory Shoemaker, Central Valley Ag Cooperative, Beloit, Kan. Visit www.communicators.coop for more information.

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