Distribution Dispatcher Lindsay Bates has been awarded SWEPCO’s 2024 Volunteer of the Year.

The surprise announcement was made by SWEPCO President Brett Mattison at a March 25 recognition lunch honoring 11 employees making an impact in their communities through volunteerism.

Lindsay supports area veterans through volunteerism at Lowe-McFarlane American Legion Post 14 and the American Legion Auxiliary Unit 14 in Shreveport. As the president of the auxiliary, she routinely works on fundraisers that aid veterans and programs that support them. In addition, her role involves coordinating community activities at the American Legion post.

“Lindsay's unwavering dedication to our veterans and her community is truly inspiring,” said SWEPCO President and COO Brett Mattison. “The hundreds of hours she put in last year is a testament to her commitment and passion. We are proud to recognize her as SWEPCO's Volunteer of the Year, and her impact will be felt for years to come."

Lindsay logged more than 600 volunteer hours in 2024.

“Veterans do so much for our community, and there is nothing I can do to say thank enough for what the veterans have done for us, and so to be able to do that is honor enough,” said  

In addition to Lindsay’s recognition, another employee was honored for her extensive community engagement.

Senior Generation Applications Support Specialist Becky Whitenack – who volunteered with 15 different nonprofits in 2024 – received the Community Impact Award.

Becky has a heart for her East Texas community. She spreads her time among numerous organizations from a Girl Scout troop to the Judson Lions Club to The Salvation Army. In addition, you’ll likely find her lending a hand at any number of community events, including back-to-school drives, community resource fairs or putting together food boxes for those in need during the holidays.

In addition to Lindsay and Becky, nine other employees were celebrated for their service and commitment to a variety of organizations and causes across their respective communities. These individuals were selected based on volunteer activities logged in 2024. 

The nine volunteer service honorees include:

1. Erik Eaves, Region Production Support Supervisor, Welsh Power Plant 

Erik lends a hand to numerous organizations across East Texas. His volunteerism extends from refereeing youth basketball games and assisting with Eagle Scout projects to installing electrical wiring at a church and assisting with storm clean following hurricanes or tornadoes. He also participates in several community projects through United Way in both Tulsa, Oklahoma and Longview, Texas, as well as serving as the Booster Club President for his children’s school, which involves managing fundraisers and working concession stands weekly.

2. Bob Harper, Telecommunications Technician C, Natchitoches, Louisiana 

Bob invests his time in developing the next generation of leaders in central Louisiana. He volunteers numerous hours at the Harvest Now Camp in Anacoco, a church camp that involves its campers in community outreach opportunities that build confidence and change lives. 

3. Benjamin Seals, Instrument Technician, Flint Creek Power Plant 

Benjamin supports area Northwest Arkansas youth with interests in marksmanship through his involvement with the Ozark Youth Shooting Team. He’s witnessed how competitions have helped students overcome daunting obstacles, debilitating fears, and personal challenges. The team has played a pivotal role in his children’s life, and he is proud to be one the many coaches and volunteers who devote countless hours and dollars to it.

4. Travis Zappa, Safety & Health Coordinator, Longview, Texas 

Travis serves his East Texas community as a volunteer firefighter. Since 2003, he has volunteered numerous hours to answering the call with the Diana Volunteer Fire Department in Upshur County. In addition to responding to fires, his role also involves responding to all medical calls, vehicle wrecks, disasters where storms have brought down trees (clearing roads and rescue residents from damaged homes) and being involved with most community activities. He also volunteers his time to do fire prevention and education with the local elementary school.

5. David Rumsey, Maintenance Supervisor, Turk Power Plant

David serves as a sergeant in the reserve unit of the Atlanta Police Department. Early into his career at Welsh Power Plant, the East Texas Police Academy held a nine-month academy in his hometown of Atlanta, Texas. David attended class for four hours every weeknight to graduate. He signed up with the reserve unit in late 2006, and he now spends hundreds of hours each year patrolling and covering shifts, occasionally alongside his wife, who is a full-time officer. In addition to being a sergeant of the reserve department, David also volunteers throughout the year at multiple school and city events.

6. Cheryl Jordan, Sr. Safety & Health Coordinator, Texarkana

Cheryl Jordan dedicates her time and talents to uplifting her community through her church. As a volunteer with the after-school youth group, she nurtures the next generation, instilling values of faith and friendship. In addition to her work with youth, Cheryl contributes her financial expertise in the church's finance office, ensuring the smooth operation of its programs.

Each month, Cheryl joins her church in outreach efforts, visiting neighbors and residents at a local assisted living facility, spreading joy and companionship. Her unwavering commitment to her faith shines brightly through her service to others, making a lasting impact on those around her.

7. Ivaunna Neigler, Environmental and Lab Supervisor in Gentry, Ark. 

Ivaunna is dedicated to her community in Gentry, actively participating in various environmental initiatives. She plays a significant role in organizing events for Earth Day and Arbor Day at the FLC Eagle Watch Nature Trail, where she facilitates presentations and collaborates with local 4H groups to engage in these important activities.
Additionally, Ivaunna assists the Gentry Fire Department with the annual prairie burn at the Eagle Watch, contributing to local ecosystem management. She is also involved with Northsong Wild Bird Rehabilitation, where she helps with the release of rehabilitated birds, further promoting wildlife conservation in her community. During the holiday season, Ivaunna fosters a sense of togetherness by participating in community festivities such as the Gentry Christmas Parade and Trick or Treat on Main Street.

8. Josie Henderson, Senior Administrative Assistant in Gilmer, Texas

For the past seven years, Josie has been deeply committed to volunteering in her community of Pittsburg, Texas. Her passion for volunteering began as a teenager at the First United Methodist Church (FUMC). Josie continues to volunteer with FUMC, but her primary focus is with the Pittsburg Band Boosters. She’s served as a dedicated volunteer for football and basketball game concessions and as an officer and has supported the school band by helping to organize events, fundraisers, trips for the students and community outreach.

Josie is also actively involved with the Camp County NAACP chapter where she had the privilege of helping to plan significant community events, such as the annual Black History Program and the Scholarship Fundraiser. These events not only celebrate a rich cultural heritage but also provide essential support and opportunities for youth, helping to bridge generational and cultural gaps.

9. Quentin Smith, RSO Region Manager in Pittsburg, Texas 

Quentin dedicates his time to uplifting local youth and supporting community initiatives. He actively participates in the Avinger Community Service Project and organizes youth camps at the First Pentecostal Church of Daingerfield, where he also leads fundraising efforts for youth missions. Quentin's passion for community service is evident in his commitment to fostering a positive environment for the next generation.