News

Four exceptional First Electric Cooperative delegates returned home from the 2026 Electric Cooperative Youth Tour with unforgettable memories, new friendships and a deeper understanding of leadership and public service.

Representing First Electric this year were Kailyn Burroughs of Mount Vernon; Margaret Poteat of Bryant; Maryn Harvey of Bryant; and Chloee Sims of Perryville. During their week in Washington, D.C., the students joined more than 2,000 young leaders from across the country to experience America's history, government and the cooperative difference firsthand.

From touring the U.S. Capitol, Arlington National Cemetery and the Smithsonian museums to visiting the nation's most iconic monuments, the delegates experienced history in a way that can't be replicated in a classroom.

The week concluded with an exciting honor for First Electric. Kailyn was selected as Arkansas' 2026 Youth Leadership Council (YLC) representative, an achievement recognizing her outstanding leadership, character and commitment to serving others. As Arkansas' YLC representative, Kailyn will continue representing the state's electric cooperatives throughout the coming year, including attending the Electric Cooperatives of Arkansas Summer Directors’ Conference and National Rural Electric Cooperative Association's PowerXchange Conference.

First Electric is proud of Kailyn, Margaret, Maryn and Chloee for representing the cooperative with integrity and enthusiasm, and we look forward to watching each of them continue to lead and serve in their communities.