We’re excited to share some big news with our members: Cherryland Electric Cooperative CEO Rachel Johnson has been recognized on a national stage as the 2026 J.C. Brown CEO Communication Leadership Award recipient.

This award, presented by the Council of Rural Electric Communicators and the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, honors one electric cooperative CEO each year who demonstrates a strong commitment to clear, meaningful communication. In other words, it recognizes leaders who believe staying connected to members and communities truly matters.

Even more exciting? Rachel is the first woman to ever receive this award.

Since becoming Cherryland’s CEO in 2023, Rachel has been a strong advocate for transparency, authenticity, and two-way communication. From sharing regular updates with members to prioritizing engagement with our community and employees, her leadership reflects the cooperative values Cherryland was built on.

On a national level, Rachel is also known as a trailblazer. She co-developed the Member Loyalty Index, a tool now used by electric cooperatives across the country to better understand and serve their members. She’s also helped educate hundreds of cooperative leaders nationwide through a strategic communications course she created.

At home, her focus remains the same: keeping members informed, listening to feedback, and helping Cherryland navigate an energy landscape that’s constantly evolving — together.

This recognition is a reflection of Rachel’s leadership, but it’s also a reflection of Cherryland’s commitment to putting people first and keeping communication clear, honest, and accessible.

We’re proud to have Rachel leading Cherryland — and grateful to serve such an engaged, supportive membership.