Southwestern Electric Power Company (SWEPCO) proudly continues its longstanding partnership with the Community Development Institute (CDI) at the University of Central Arkansas by awarding scholarships to seven community leaders for the 2024 CDI program.

SWEPCO has supported the CDI Institute and provided scholarships to deserving individuals since 2011. This support enables recipients to gain vital skills and knowledge to drive growth and prosperity in their area. "At SWEPCO, we understand the importance of community and economic development in creating thriving, sustainable regions," said Eric Basinger, SWEPCO Economic and Business Development Manager. "By funding these scholarships, we are investing in future leaders who will drive innovation, foster collaboration, and bring meaningful change to their communities. The skills and connections they gain through CDI will help them make a lasting impact."

The CDI program was held from July 29 to August 2, and offered a comprehensive, three-year curriculum designed to equip participants with tools and strategies needed to make an immediate and lasting impact in their communities.

"SWEPCO's support of the Community Development Institute is invaluable," said Shelby Fiegel, Director of CDI at the University of Central Arkansas. "Whether it be through providing scholarships to leaders who would otherwise be unable to participate in the program or partnering with CDI staff beyond the classroom through other training and technical assistance programs, SWEPCO makes a tremendous impact on the economic vitality of the communities in its service area. Organizations like SWEPCO make it possible for our participants to gain access to high-quality curriculum, expert speakers, and networking opportunities through CDI."

The program attracts a diverse group of leaders, including elected officials, economic developers, city planners, and nonprofit professionals, who come together to learn how to leverage community assets, build consensus, and sustain economic development efforts.

The 2024 SWEPCO scholarship recipients were selected from throughout SWEPCO’s service territory:

• Amanda Wiley, Queen City Economic Development Administrator, Queen City - Economic Development Corporation, Queen City, TX (Year 1)
• Jonathan Reynolds, Chief Commercial Officer, Carter Credit Union, Shreveport, LA (Year 3)
• Hanah Davis, Executive Director, South Logan County Chamber of Commerce, Booneville, AR (Year 2)
• Christy Burns, Executive Director, Hope-Hempstead County Chamber of Commerce, Hope, AR (Year 1)
• Jessica Grady, Planning Director, City of Pea Ridge, Pea Ridge, AR (Year 1)
• Suzanne Babb, Executive Director, Sevier County Chamber of Commerce, De Queen, AR (Year 1)
• Amber Mikles, Executive Director, Boys & Girls Club of South Logan County, Magazine, AR (Year 3)

"CDI Year-1 was an incredible and challenging experience and helped me understand those vital links between community and economic development," said Suzanne Babb, Executive Director of Sevier County Chamber of Commerce and one of this year’s scholarship recipients. "Loving where we live and living where we work matters!"

The Community Development Institute is widely recognized as a leading resource for community and economic development training. CDI’s program is designed to connect community leaders with opportunities to enhance their knowledge, build networks, and develop the expertise needed to lead successful initiatives in their regions.