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Category: Press Releases

SECO Energy and CoBank Award $30,000 in Sharing Success Contributions to Strengthen Rural Communities

SECO Energy and CoBank have awarded $30,000 in Sharing Success contributions to four nonprofit organizations serving Central Florida. The recipients — Wildwood Soup Kitchen in Sumter County, Citrus Abuse Shelter Association (CASA) in Citrus County, The Rock Program in Marion County, and Lake Support & Emergency Recovery, Inc. (LASER) in Lake County — each received $7,500 to expand critical services addressing hunger, domestic violence, student support, and disaster recovery. 

 

“These organizations are on the front lines of serving our rural communities,” said Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy. “Through our partnership with CoBank, we are proud to support programs that improve lives and strengthen communities every day.” 

 

In Sumter County, Wildwood Soup Kitchen provides more than 17,000 hot meals each month to homebound residents, individuals experiencing homelessness, and others facing food insecurity. Operated entirely by volunteers, the organization serves as a vital lifeline, offering both nourishment and human connection to thousands of Sumter County residents in one of the region’s most rural areas. 

 

In Citrus County, the Citrus Abuse Shelter Association (CASA) provides emergency shelter and advocacy for survivors of domestic violence and their children. Last year, the nonprofit assisted more than 1,200 individuals, helping families find safety, support, and stability during some of the most critical moments of their lives. 

 

In Marion County, The Rock Program operates in-school resource centers known as Rock Rooms, where students can discreetly access clothing, hygiene items, food, and school supplies. By addressing basic needs within schools, the organization removes barriers that can interfere with learning and helps students thrive academically and socially. 

 

In Lake County, Lake Support & Emergency Recovery, Inc. (LASER) works with residents recovering from hurricanes and other disasters, particularly those who are uninsured, underinsured, elderly, or disabled. The organization provides critical recovery and mitigation support, helping communities rebuild stronger, and more resilient after major events. 

 

Funding for these contributions was made possible through a partnership between SECO Energy and CoBank, a national cooperative bank that matches charitable contributions from electric cooperatives to support rural communities nationwide. CoBank’s Sharing Success program aligns with SECO Energy’s commitment to investing in the community beyond providing reliable electricity and supporting local organizations that strengthen families and enhance the quality of life across the region.  

 

For more information about CoBank’s Sharing Success program visit CoBank.com. 

SECO Energy Foundation Awards $25,000 Grant to Lake-Sumter State College Foundation to Support Lineworker Training Program

SECO Energy is proud to announce the award of a $25,000 grant from the SECO Energy Foundation to the Lake-Sumter State College Foundation. This grant will support lineworker training at Lake-Sumter State College (LSSC) helping strengthen workforce development efforts and prepare students for high-demand careers in the energy industry. 

 

The $25,000 grant will be used to directly support training resources and program enhancements that equip aspiring lineworkers with the technical skills, safety training, and hands-on experience needed to serve growing communities across Central Florida and beyond. As the demand for skilled utility professionals continues to rise, partnerships like the one between SECO and LSSC play a critical role in building a strong, reliable workforce. 

 

“Our partnership with Lake-Sumter State College represents an investment in people, opportunity, and the future of the energy industry,” said Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy. “Lineworkers are essential to our communities – they work every day to maintain safe and reliable electric service. Through this grant, we are helping to create pathways for students to enter a meaningful, well-paying career while ensuring our communities are served by highly trained professionals. We are proud to support a program that reflects our shared commitment to safety and community and workforce development.” 

 

John P. Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College, emphasized the importance of collaboration between industry and education. “We are deeply grateful to the SECO Energy Foundation for this generous investment in our students and our lineworker training program,” said Temple. “This partnership ensures our graduates are prepared to meet the evolving needs of the energy sector. Together, we are creating life-changing opportunities for students while strengthening the infrastructure and economic vitality of the region.” 

 

The SECO Energy Foundation is dedicated to supporting initiatives that enhance education, community well-being, and workforce readiness. By investing in local training programs like LSSC’s lineworker program, the SECO Energy Foundation continues its mission of giving back to the communities and members it proudly serves. 

 

For more information about the SECO Energy Foundation and its community initiatives, visit SECOFoundation.org.  

 

From left to right: Curtis Wynn, Chief Executive Officer of SECO Energy; Joyce Anderson, Secretary-Treasurer of the SECO Energy Board of Trustees and District 2 Trustee; Matthew Roudabush, President of the SECO Energy Foundation Board of Directors; Mariah Delgado, Executive Director of the SECO Energy Foundation; John P. Temple, President of Lake-Sumter State College; and Dr. Laura Byrd, Senior Vice President of Institutional Advancement at Lake-Sumter State College.

SECO Energy Trustees Morgan Hatfield & Gerald Anderson Maintain Director Gold Credential

SECO Energy congratulates District 3 Trustee Gerald Anderson and District 9 Trustee Morgan Hatfield on maintaining their Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees is one of the very few in the nation among electric cooperatives in which every Board member has earned the Director Gold Credential.  

  

According to the NRECA, The Director Gold credential recognizes directors committed to continuing their education beyond the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC). The DGC offers a continued education path for those who desire a tangible credential that demonstrates their ongoing commitment to advancing their knowledge and performing their fiduciary duty to the best of their ability.  

  

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative, operated for and owned by its members. SECO’s nine-member Board of Trustees consists of members who live in SECO’s service area. They are elected to oversee the governance of the cooperative. Each Trustee on the Board is elected by the members who reside in his/her District. Collectively, the Trustees are responsible for establishing, reviewing and revising corporate policies to ensure that SECO continues to preserve reliable, affordable service for all members.  

 

President Anderson lives in The Villages and has been a SECO member since 2013, he was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2019. 

  

President Anderson stated, “I am proud to continue my Board education through the NRECA. I am honored by the trust that District 3 members have placed in me to represent them on SECO’s Board of Trustees. I look forward to SECO Energy’s continued success.”  

 

Vice President Hatfield lives in Umatilla and has been a SECO member since 2019, she was first elected to the Board of Trustees in 2021. 

  

Vice President Hatfield stated, “I am proud to serve as the District 9 Trustee and am extremely grateful for the trust that District 9 members have placed in me to represent them on the SECO Board of Trustees. Board education classes are essential to my Board service, and I am proud to continue my education through the NRECA.”  

  

CEO Curtis Wynn said, “Congratulations, President Anderson and Vice President Hatfield, on maintaining your Director Gold Credential, I am thankful for your desire to further your education and your willingness to serve as leaders on our Board for our members in Districts’ 3 and 9 and throughout our entire service region.”  

  

To view the SECO Board of Trustees and a map of their respective service territories, visit SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees page on SECOEnergy.com.

SECO Energy Hosts High School Career Express Event for Sumter County School District

SECO Energy has partnered with CareerSource Central Florida to host the High School Career Express Event on February 27, marking the first time the Cooperative has served as a host site for the program. Students from the Sumter County School District arrived at the SECO Energy Headquarters, where they were welcomed by SECO leadership and staff before participating in hands-on presentations to learn more about the electric cooperative industry. 

 

Students from South Sumter High, Wildwood Middle High, and Sumter P.R.E.P. Academy were greeted by CEO Curtis Wynn, who delivered welcome remarks highlighting SECO Energy’s commitment to community engagement and future career opportunities within the Cooperative.  

 

Following the welcome session, students were divided into groups to explore various departments and facilities across SECO’s campus. Throughout the visit, employees led interactive presentations on Substation Operations, Solar and Energy Efficiency, Reliability and Operations, and Drone Technology, providing students with insight into the diverse career paths available in the energy industry. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned and operated by more than 265,000 members across Central Florida. The Cooperative recognizes the importance of investing in the education for students residing in its service territory. Through participation in programs like High School Career Express, SECO aims to cultivate local talent and help prepare students for future careers, with the potential to join the Cooperative. 

 

CareerSource Central Florida is a workforce development organization dedicated to helping job seekers access career opportunities and address employment-related needs.  The organization supports high-demand industries and local businesses by developing talent and fostering economic growth within the region. High School Career Express is a 7– to 10-week program designed to help students explore career pathways through company visits and professional networking opportunities.  

 

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn welcomed students to the SECO Headquarters. Wynn stated, “Welcome, students and faculty, I am glad you are here to learn more about the energy industry, electric cooperatives, and SECO Energy. The talented students that I have interacted with in our local communities are truly impressive. Enjoy behind-the-scenes opportunity to explore future career paths and learn from your SECO hosts. We are excited to welcome you and share our electric cooperative with you.” 

 

Terri O’Neal, SECO Energy’s Community & Government Affairs Consultant, stated, “I would like to sincerely thank all the students who participated in our High School Career Express.  We hope your visit provided valuable insight into the energy industry and helped you explore the many opportunities available in this field.  Here at SECO Energy, we are committed to investing in the future leaders of the communities we serve. By offering programs like this, we aim to educate, inspire, and support the next generation, some of whom may one day join our team. Thank you for being part of this experience, and we wish you continued success in your journey ahead.” 

 

“We are thrilled to partner with SECO Energy as a hosting site for High School Career Express, giving local students the opportunity to experience firsthand the many career opportunities that exist beyond what they may traditionally associate with the utilities industry,” said Marcela DeFaria, Vice President of Development at CareerSource Central Florida. “By connecting them with industry leaders and real-world environments, we’re helping students envision their future and make informed decisions about their career journey.  

 

“At SECO Energy, we recognize that today’s students are tomorrow’s workforce,” said April Brown, Vice President of Human Resources & Corporate Services. “By engaging with students through programs like High School Career Express, we are helping them explore meaningful career paths while building a strong, skilled talent pipeline to support the future of our Cooperative and the communities we serve.” 

 

Students who participated in the High School Career Express event will be eligible for SECO Energy’s Internship program beginning in Summer 2026, with more details to follow. High School Seniors are also eligible for SECO Energy’s 2026 Scholarship Program, which will award 12 students who plan to attend a college, university, or trade school in Florida $4,000 each to support their education. Applications are now open, with a deadline on March 27, 2026. Students may find more details and apply on the SECO Energy website at secoenergy.com/scholarship.   

A group picture of High School Career Express students and chaperones alongside SECO Energy employees and CareerSource Central Florida’s Program Manager – Apprenticeship Navigator & Business Initiatives, Brenda Chrisman.
SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn welcomes the students at High School Career Express to the electric cooperative.

SECO Energy District 6 Trustee Mike Muffett to Continue Board Service

SECO Energy’s District 6 members have re-elected Trustee Mike Muffett without opposition, to continue serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. Mr. Muffett will serve a new three-year term following the election held on February 3 at Village View Community Church, which was well attended by District 6 members.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by and operated for more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future.   

 

In accordance with SECO’s bylaws and Florida statute, the cooperative conducts in-person district meetings and elections. The District 6 meeting saw a strong attendance, with members actively engaged throughout the Member Engagement Panel discussion, sharing thoughtful questions, feedback and perspectives on cooperative operations and priorities. Mr. Muffett was the sole candidate for the District 6 Trustee position and received strong support from members for his continued service. 

 

A SECO Energy member since 1984, Mr. Muffett was first elected as District 6 Trustee in 2020. He has earned a Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and a Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA).  

 

“I’m extremely grateful for the strong turnout and active participation from the District 6 members,” said Trustee Muffett. “After six years of serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees, I remain fully committed to helping this community and working alongside the rest of the Board, ensuring our members get the best energy services possible.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, praised the level of member involvement. “Thank you to our District 6 members for your attendance, questions and meaningful discussion,” stated Anderson. Congratulations, Trustee Muffett, on your re-election as District 6 Trustee. The Board looks forward to our continued work together.”  

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn also acknowledged the District 6 members and their strong turnout and engagement. “The high level of participation we saw during the Member Engagement Panel demonstrates how invested our members are in their cooperative,” Wynn said.  “Thank you to our District 6 members for attending, asking questions and sharing feedback. This level of engagement strengthens our cooperative and helps guide our decisions.”  

Wynn continued to say, “Congratulations to Trustee Muffett on continuing to represent his fellow members. The trust and support shown by District 6 were evident throughout the meeting. The Executive Leadership Team looks forward to continuing our work with Trustee Muffett and the entire Board as we drive SECO Energy’s success and support the well-being of our members.”  

(Left to right) SECO Energy Board of Trustees President Gerald Anderson, District 6 Trustee Mike Muffett, and SECO CEO Curtis Wynn at the District 6 Meeting on Tuesday night. 

Members ask insightful questions to SECO Energy’s Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 6 Meeting.  

SECO Energy District 2 Members Re-Elect Trustee Joyce Anderson

SECO Energy members in District 2 have re-elected Secretary-Treasurer Joyce Anderson to the cooperative’s Board of Trustees for  a new three-year term. The District 2 election was held on January 29 at the Sumter County Fairgrounds Cow Palace.  

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned by and operated for more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future. 

 

In accordance with SECO’s bylaws, the cooperative conducts in-person elections, as required by Florida statute. Trustee Joyce Anderson of Sumterville, John McCumber of The Villages, and Wayland Wagner also of The Villages were certified candidates who expressed their intent to seek election for the District 2 Trustee position. Trustee Anderson was elected by a majority vote. 

 

First elected in February 2020,  Anderson  has earned a Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) Certificate and Director Gold Credential (DGC) from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA). She has been a SECO Energy member since 2017.  

 

“I’m honored to be re-elected to the SECO Board of Trustees and want to thank the members of District 2 for trusting me to represent them. I take this responsibility with great care,” Anderson said. “To grow with this cooperative is a privilege and I remain committed to making decisions that will benefit members in the long run alongside my fellow Trustees.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, stated, “Thank you to the District 2 members who took part in the voting process. Congratulations to Trustee Anderson on her re-election as District 2 Trustee. The Board and I are  pleased with the outcome and look forward to continuing our work together.” 

 

During the district meeting, SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn provided members with an update on the cooperative and emphasized the importance of member participation in the democratic process. 

“We appreciate the strong turnout from District 2 members and thank everyone who participated, whether in person or through our drive-thru voting option,” Wynn said. “Members asked insightful questions during the panel discussion, and that engagement reflects the cooperative difference – ensuring our members have a voice in choosing their representatives and in the future of their cooperative.  Congratulations to Secretary-Treasurer Joyce Anderson on her re-election. We look forward to continuing our work  together to ensure SECO’s future success.” 

A member shares their questions with the Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 2 Meeting.

A member shares their questions with the Executive Leadership Team during the Member Engagement Panel segment at the District 2 Meeting.  

SECO Energy Advises Members to Prepare for Weekend Cold Weather Event

SECO Energy is advising members across its service territory to prepare for an anticipated cold weather event expected to impact Central Florida this weekend. Forecasts indicate significantly cooler temperatures, which may lead local governments to activate shelters or warming centers for vulnerable residents. 

 

SECO Energy encourages members to take precautions to protect themselves, their families and their homes during cold conditions. Simple actions such as dressing in layers, checking on elderly neighbors and ensuring pets have adequate warmth can help keep everyone safe and comfortable. 

 

As temperatures drop, energy use naturally increases in many homes. SECO energy encourages members to practice everyday energy-smart habits that can help manage personal usage and potential bill impacts while maintaining comfort, such as adjusting thermostats efficiently and turning off unnecessary lights or electronics. These small steps can help conserve energy while keeping homes comfortable during colder weather. 

 

Members seeking information on shelters or warming centers should contact their local Emergency Operations Center (EOC) or county emergency management office. Information is available for residents in Levy, Marion, Hernando, Lake, Pasco, Sumter and Citrus counties through county EOCs and FloridaDisaster.org. 

 

SECO Energy will continue to monitor weather conditions and share updates as needed. Members are encouraged to stay informed through trusted weather sources and local emergency management agencies. 

 

For outage reporting and updates, members can visit StormCenter.

SECO Energy District 4 Trustee James LaMotte Re-elected Unopposed Following Highly Attended District Meeting

SECO Energy members in District 4 have re-elected Trustee James LaMotte without opposition to continue serving on SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees following a highly attended District 4 Meeting held January 27 at the Marion Oaks Community Center.  

 

Demonstrating strong engagement and support for their cooperative, more than 200 District 4 members and their families attended the meeting, making it one of the most well-attended District events. The impressive turnout underscored the importance members place on participation, transparency, and local representation within SECO Energy. 

 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative owned and operated by more than 265,000 Central Florida members. The Cooperative is geographically divided into nine Districts, each represented by a Trustee who serves on the SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees. The nine-member Board meets monthly to make decisions in the best interests of the membership. As SECO’s governing body, the board plays a pivotal role in shaping the cooperative’s present and future. 

 

District Meetings are conducted in accordance with SECO Energy’s bylaws, and in-person elections are required by Florida statute. LaMotte was the sole candidate for District 4 Trustee position, reflecting strong member confidence in his leadership and service.  

 

James LaMotte was first elected as District 4 Trustee in April 2024, following a Special District Meeting. He has earned the Director Gold Credential from the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the highest level of Trustee education. LaMotte has been a member of SECO Energy since 2018.  

 

“I am amazed and humbled by the number of District 4 members who attended our meeting,” said LaMotte. “Running is an honor, and I remain committed to working with my fellow Trustees to advance SECO Energy’s mission and long-term success.” 

 

Gerald Anderson, President of the Board of Trustees, emphasized the importance of member involvement. “Member participation is the foundation of the cooperative business model. We thank the District 4 members for their outstanding engagement, attendance, and community presence. Congratulations to Trustee LaMotte on his re-election. The Board looks forward to continuing our work together.”   

 

SECO Energy Chief Executive Officer Curtis Wynn also recognized District 4 members for their strong participation. “Looking out at this amazing crowd, I see member engagement with SECO Energy in action,” Wynn said. Thank you to our District 4 members for understanding the importance of attending your District Meeting and taking part in the cooperative process.”  

Wynn added, “I appreciate Trustee LaMotte for his dedication to representing his fellow members. It is clear that he has the confidence and support of his District and is representing District 4 extremely well. The Executive Leadership Team looks forward to continuing our collaborative work with Trustee LaMotte and the entire Board to ensure the very best for our members.” 

 

SECO Energy CEO Curtis Wynn addresses the District 4 crowd on Tuesday, January 27 

SECO Energy is a not-for-profit electric cooperative serving more than 250,000 homes and businesses across the Florida counties of Sumter, Citrus, Marion, Lake, Levy, Pasco, and Hernando. SECO is the seventh largest in the nation. SECO’s wholesale power provider is Seminole Electric, one of the nation’s largest generation and transmission cooperatives, serving nearly 2 million consumers in Florida. Seminole is owned by nine electric distribution cooperatives, and SECO is one of those nine member-owners.  

This institution is an equal opportunity provider and employer. 

SECO Energy Deploys Crews to Assist with Winter Storm Restoration Efforts in South Carolina and Georgia

In response to a request from the Florida Electric Cooperatives Association (FECA), SECO Energy is deploying crews to assist with power restoration efforts in the northern regions of South Carolina and Georgia ahead of the anticipated impacts from Winter Storm Fern.

 

A SECO Energy crew of nine (9) employees departed SECO Energy headquarters today at 7:00 a.m. and is expected to arrive in South Carolina this evening. Upon arrival, the team will report to Laurens Electric Cooperative to begin preparations for restoration efforts as conditions allow.

 

Meteorologists predict that Winter Storm Fern will bring accumulating ice, snow, and significant tree-related damage beginning early Sunday morning. SECO Energy crews are prepared to assist with power restoration and infrastructure repairs once the storm has passed and conditions are safe.

 

“Mutual aid is a cornerstone of the electric cooperative network,” said Kathy Judkins, Vice President Communications, Community and Member Experience “We are proud to support our fellow cooperatives and the communities they serve during severe weather events.”

 

SECO Energy will continue to monitor storm conditions and coordinate closely with FECA and partner cooperatives throughout the response.

SECO Energy Announces 2026 Youth Scholarship Program

SECO Energy is proud to continue its long-standing commitment to education in the communities it serves through the 2026 Youth Scholarship Program. SECO Energy’s Board of Trustees has approved $48,000 in scholarships for 12 exceptional high school seniors who reside in SECO’s service territory. Each selected student will receive $4,000 to help fund their educational journey. 

 

SECO recognizes that investing in education is essential to developing a skilled workforce capable of meeting future challenges. As part of the not-for-profit electric cooperative’s commitment to providing safe and reliable electric service, the Youth Scholarship Program is designed to foster local talent, prepare students for future careers, and strengthen the pipeline of professionals who may one day join the SECO Energy team. 

 

SECO Energy’s CEO Curtis Wynn emphasized the importance of cultivating a skilled workforce within the cooperative’s service communities. “As the energy industry evolves, SECO Energy and other utilities are committed to attracting and developing individuals who can thrive in a dynamic environment,” Wynn stated. “SECO Energy’s Vision is to become the employer of choice in our region. The Youth Scholarship Program represents a direct investment in local students’ education, equipping them for successful careers in the energy sector. Our local communities are rich with talented students who will be essential assets to future employers and to the region as a whole.” 

 

Eligibility Criteria

  • Applicants must graduate from high school by the end of the 2025-2026 academic year (May/June) and enroll in a Florida-based college, university, or technical school by the end of the same year. 
  • Special emphasis will be given to students pursuing degrees in technology, business, engineering, or mathematics, especially those aligned with the energy sector. Relevant majors include computer science, mechanical engineering, electrical engineering, chemical, nuclear, environmental, civil, agricultural/biological, industrial, materials science, and various mathematics disciplines. 
  • Applicants must reside in a household within SECO Energy’s service area or live with a parent or legal guardian who is an active SECO Energy member at the time of award. 

 

Evaluation Process

Applications will be evaluated based on financial need, academic achievement, community involvement, the quality of the personal statement or essay, and the relevance of the applicant’s chosen major to a STEM or energy-related career path. Evaluation decisions are final, and feedback or appeals cannot be provided.  

 

Application Details

The 2026 SECO Energy Youth Scholarship Program application is available online at SECOEnergy.com > Your Co-op > Youth Scholarship Program. Applications must be submitted by 5:00 p.m. on Friday, March 27, 2026. For inquiries regarding SECO Energy’s Scholarship Program, please contact YouthPrograms@SECOEnergy.com.  

 

Curtis Wynn, SECO Energy CEO (far left) and Board of Trustee’s President Gerald Anderson (far right) posing with the 2025 SECO scholarship winners.