Noreen Ndonde, a Rappahannock Electric Cooperative (REC) Youth Tour student from Albemarle County, has been selected to represent Virginia on the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association’s (NRECA) Youth Leadership Council.
The Virginia, Maryland & Delaware Association of Electric Cooperatives selected Ndonde for the yearlong leadership program, which brings together students who demonstrate leadership potential, strong communication skills, community involvement and an interest in serving others.
“We are thrilled that Noreen has taken on this important role,” said Casey Hollins, Managing Director – Communications and Public Relations. “Her selection is a proud moment for the Cooperative and a reminder that opportunities for young people can strengthen an entire community.”
As Virginia’s Youth Leadership Council delegate, Ndonde will participate in leadership development, public speaking and advocacy activities while expanding her knowledge of the energy industry and the cooperative business model. Her term includes additional leadership training in Washington, D.C., and virtual workshops throughout the year.
Ndonde said the opportunity is especially meaningful because leadership has long been important to her and she believes the experience will help her better serve her community.
“I’m really looking forward to continuing to grow my leadership skills while working with other leaders from different states and diverse backgrounds,” Ndonde said. “I’m excited to learn from people with experiences and perspectives that are different from my own, build meaningful connections and become a stronger leader through those experiences!”
Ndonde’s selection was announced during NRECA’s 2026 Youth Tour, held June 15-19 in Washington, D.C. Ndonde represented REC alongside Lincoln Stuart of Culpeper County, Maia Parks of Frederick County and Adrian Keyser of Spotsylvania County.
REC selected the four students from applicants across its service territory. They joined more than 1,800 students representing electric cooperatives nationwide to learn about government, U.S. history, community engagement and active citizenship.
About Rappahannock Electric Cooperative
Serving more than 185,000 connections across portions of 22 Virginia counties, REC is a pillar in its communities, with over 18,000 miles of power lines extending from the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Chesapeake Bay. For more information about REC, please visit www.myrec.coop. Follow REC on Facebook, X, Instagram, LinkedIn and YouTube.
