Investing in Tomorrow’s Leaders

MLEC sponsors members to attend annual leadership conference

(February 27, 2026 ) – Meriwether Lewis members Jimmy and Holly Kruegar, along with their son Jacob, proudly represented MLEC at the Tennessee Council of Cooperatives’ Young Leaders Conference, held February 20–21 at the Drury Hotel in Franklin.

Pictured from left to right: Jacob, Holly and Jimmy Kruegar, MLEC District Manager Matt Chessor.

The conference is a collaborative effort between the Tennessee Council of Cooperatives, the Tennessee Farm Bureau and the Tennessee Young Farmers & Ranchers organization. Together, these groups invest in the next generation by providing education, inspiration and connection opportunities for emerging leaders across the state.

Through keynote presentations, interactive sessions and networking opportunities, attendees gain a deeper understanding of the cooperative business model, and the important role electric cooperatives play in serving rural communities.

The Kruegars returned home equipped with new ideas, insights and meaningful connections to grow their community and help meet the challenges of the future.

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