Kevin Murphy: Valley Innovation Ambassador
December 27, 2023

Kevin Murphy’s transition to President of Southwest Tennessee Electric Membership Corporation in 2009 was an opportunity to ensure his system was prepared for the future. He offered the following thoughts regarding how his LPC has navigated the deployment of needed technology:

“Southwest is trying to be at the forefront of bringing internet service to our area, and we’ve also helped different communities and co-ops get involved in this process.  We’re working with other co-ops and municipals in the area that already have internet service and have been building a big loop area so that if one part of it goes down, not all of it goes down, so we’re able to support them and keep the internet accessible to our members. We’ve also been working with Seven States on installing EV chargers at various points across our service territory. We’re really excited about the work that’s being done.”

Kevin wants his members to know that his team truly cares about their work and that they see keeping the lights on as one of the many ways they can positively impact the community. He emphasizes that approaching routine actions in innovative ways can make a world of difference:

“We have a ‘round-up’ program that allows our members to choose to round up their electric bill total if they’d like to donate, and in the last four years, we’ve given $1 million back into the community—all because our members rounded up their bills. It really makes a difference to local food banks and other programs. It’s overseen by a board that is made up of our membership. People can apply for grants and then the membership decides how to distribute the funds. The management of Southwest Electric supports them, but it’s all the membership’s decisions.”

Kevin is the first to say that Southwest’s positive impact on the Valley would not be possible without his team. His advice to general managers is to focus on your team’s strengths when deploying new technology.

“Take everything one step at a time. When you’re a new manager, you’re assaulted by everything. What helped me the most was having a great team on board.  There’s no way I can do everything—I have to have some good people. And I’ve got some doggone good people by my side. If you try and tackle everything, it’ll run over you, so lean on your team and take it one day at a time.”

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Here We Grow Again! Seven States Welcomes Kim Shumpert as VP of Public Relations

By Jessica Bradshaw • June 9, 2025
Seven States Power Corporation is pleased to announce the appointment of Kim Shumpert as Vice President of Public Relations. Shumpert brings over two decades of experience in growing the capacity and impact of multiple organizations within both the public and private sectors. With both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in Public Administration, Shumpert brings a distinguished background in executive leadership, having guided regional economic development initiatives and directed comprehensive communication strategies across diverse platforms. Her experience includes successfully managing media relations and fostering strong partnerships. In her new role as Vice President of Public Relations, Shumpert will spearhead efforts to increase the organization’s impact, deepen stakeholder engagement, and advance the mission of empowering LPCs to meet growing consumer demand for technology and innovation in an evolving utility landscape. “We are thrilled to welcome Kim to our team,” said Betsey Kirk McCall, Seven States President & CEO. “Her proven ability to build meaningful relationships and communicate with purpose aligns perfectly with our vision for growth and engagement.” Shumpert joins Seven States at a pivotal time in the energy industry. Her leadership will play a crucial role in supporting Seven States Power Corporation’s ongoing commitment to leveraging technology to design, develop, and deploy forward-thinking energy solutions in partnership with LPCs and the communities they serve.  Seven States Power Corporation is a trusted partner to 153 local power companies across the Tennessee Valley, delivering customized energy and generation solutions and supporting community success through technology and innovation. To stay up to date on Seven States projects, announcements, and news, subscribe to our newsletter .
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