By Staff
CASSOPOLIS - The CEO of Midwest Energy Cooperative was chosen as the recipient of the 2004 Regional Award for Outstanding Service from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).
Robert L. Hance received his honor at the NRECA meeting for more than 1,000 electric cooperatives.
The president of the organization, David Cowan, said the award recognized Hance's "invaluable contributions and dedication to fostering a spirit of cooperation and service among the electric cooperatives and communities they serve."
Hance, who began his co-op career in the early 1970s, working for O &A Electric Cooperative in Newaygo as the facilities mapping coordinator, is celebrating more than 40 years of service in this industry.
As the new CEO at Midwest Energy Cooperative, Hance has quickly developed a reputation as an industry and community leader, helping to secure more than $4 million in economic development grants and helping position the co-op as a regional leader on energy and economic development issues.
Hance is past chairman of the Michigan Electric Cooperative Manager's Association and former board member and treasurer of the Michigan Statewide Association.
Midwest Energy Cooperative is a member owned electric utility providing electric and an assortment of energy-related programs and services to more than 32,000 customers in 11 counties in southern Michigan and northern Indiana and Ohio.
Today at the Midwest Energy Office in Cassopolis, tours between 11 a.m. and 2 p.m., were part of Appreciation Week.
A grand prize drawing on Oct. 1 will also be held for a $500 travel voucher. Entry forms will be inserted in your bill, or available at the office.