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

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.”

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.