Deidra Grantham has been named one of 20 “Co-op Rising Stars” by RE Magazine and was featured in the magazine’s cover story on Sept. 1.
Grantham was nominated by General Manger Mike Davis and was selected by a panel of judges from 170 nominees. Recipients were chosen nationwide for their contributions to their electric co-ops and communities.
In Grantham’s nomination, she was noted for her integrity and loyalty to her work without any exception of reward or recognition. Grantham’s work coordinating the first drive-thru annual meeting that doubled members’ participation to 1,580 in 2022 from 776 in 2019 and implementing the “Design Your Bag” contest for K-12 students made her a standout to the selection committee.
“Our community outreach programs are rising and soaring through Deidra’s leadership,” says Davis. “She believes in the vision of the cooperative and makes it her own.”
The news surprised Grantham, who received an email from the National Rural Electric Cooperative (NRECA) announcing the award. “I remember sitting in my living room scrolling through work emails when I read the congratulations email,” Grantham said. “Many people deserve this award, and it’s a true honor to be nominated and selected among several national submissions.”
Grantham joined Tri-County EMC in January of 2016. Today, she coordinates community outreach programs, including the Bright Ideas Grants, Operation Round-Up, Scholarship Program, Electric Youth Tour, and Touchstone Energy Basketball Camp. She is also the editor of our Carolina Country magazine, social media outlets, media, and website.
Grantham states that her success is the village of support around her, making this award possible. Tri-County EMC is proud of Grantham and her dedication to serving its members. Tri-County EMC is proud of Grantham and her commitment to serving its members. Read the story in NRECA's Magazine.