Southwestern Electric Power Company today announced that Lisa Porterfield Thompson has been named manager of External Affairs for Arkansas. She will serve southwest Arkansas and northeast Texas. She begins Sept. 30. In her new role, Thompson will work with local communities and collaborate with stakeholders on issues concerning local economic development, government, business, education, emergency service coordination and other community needs.

Thompson takes over from Jennifer Harland, who retired July 1, following a career with SWEPCO that spanned more than three decades.

Before joining SWEPCO, Thompson worked for the City of Texarkana, Texas. Since 2017, she has worked as its economic development and communication manager. Prior to that, she spent several years as the city’s public information officer.  She also has previous experience as the president of the Atlanta Area Chamber of Commerce and the Public Relations Director for Texarkana College.

“Lisa brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in community relations and corporate communications to our team,” said William C. Bradford, Vice President of External Affairs, SWEPCO. “Her dedication to fostering strong community partnerships and her strategic vision will be invaluable as we continue to enhance our engagement efforts throughout the Texarkana service territory. We are thrilled to welcome Lisa to SWEPCO and look forward to the positive impact she will undoubtedly make.”

Thompson received an undergraduate degree in mass communication, journalism and public relations from the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, Ark. She earned a master’s degree in public service from the Clinton School of Public Service in Little Rock, Ark. She and her husband, Brad, make their home in Atlanta, Texas, and are proud parents to three children.