Press Release

Willie’s Seal of Approval: ‘Today in Mississippi’ Soars with Powerful’s Touch in Statewide Editor’s Association Awards

LOUISVILLE, KY — Powerful, a leading web design agency, is proud to announce that the website built for the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi (ECM) magazine, Today in Mississippi, has won the highly coveted Willie Award for Best Digital Communication. This honor is awarded by the National Electric Cooperative Statewide Editors Association (SEA) and is a true mark of excellence within the electric cooperative community.

This recognition also marks a significant achievement for Powerful, as it is the third year in a row that one of its websites has received the coveted Willie Award for Best Digital Communication. The SEA’s recognition of Powerful’s work and website collaborations demonstrates the firm’s consistent ability to create exceptional digital experiences that resonate with electric cooperatives and their members.

The Today in Mississippi website was a collaborative effort between Powerful and the ECM team. Since its launch in January 2023, the site has become a benchmark for digital communication within the industry. Last year, it won the Award of Excellence for Best Digital Communication, and now it has reached new heights with the recognition of the Willie Award.

Judges from SEA were enthusiastic about the site’s design and functionality. One judge remarked, “The functionality of the site is great, both on desktop and mobile. Everything loads up smoothly and quickly. Beautiful. I especially love that the latest edition can be seen in magazine form.” Another judge added, “The categories of your content are immediately clear, while also being creative. A really alluring website. Great work.”

Upon hearing the news, Lydia Walters from the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi expressed her appreciation, stating, “The judges were very complimentary of the site. Thank you to you and your team.”

Charlie Stanley, CEO of Powerful, shared his excitement: “Winning the Willie Award for the third consecutive year is a true honor and a testament to the teamwork and dedication we share with our clients like the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. We have immense respect for the Statewide Editors Association and the thoughtfulness they bring to their judging process. This award showcases our commitment to excellence in digital communication, and we’re thrilled that the Today in Mississippi website has been recognized at this level.”

Caleigh Pickard, the project manager who oversaw the development of the Today in Mississippi site, also expressed her pride: “This project has been one of the most rewarding collaborations. Working with ECM to bring their magazine to life in the digital world has been a privilege, and receiving this recognition from SEA means a great deal. Their intentional and thorough judging process makes this win even more special for our entire team.”

About Today in Mississippi

Today in Mississippi is the official publication of the Electric Cooperatives of Mississippi. It serves as a primary source of information for members of Mississippi’s electric cooperatives, covering a wide array of topics including energy, local events, and stories that resonate with Mississippi communities.

About SEA

The National Electric Cooperative Statewide Editors Association (SEA) is a professional association that represents the editors and communication teams of electric cooperative publications across the nation. Each year, SEA recognizes excellence in electric cooperative communication through its Willie Awards, which have become a hallmark of quality within the industry.

About Powerful

Powerful is a web design agency specializing in humanizing digital experiences for utility organizations and beyond. Known for its meticulous attention to detail and commitment to delivering satisfying digital solutions, Powerful has built a reputation for creating innovative, accessible, and community-centered websites. Their mission is to foster lasting partnerships and continuously improve the digital landscapes they help shape.