Burgaw, N.C. — October 29, 2025 — Four County Electric Membership Corporation is proud to announce changes in its Board of Directors leadership, following the Board’s regular monthly meeting held on October 28, 2025.
During the Annual Membership Meeting earlier this month at the Duplin County Events Center, S. Franklin Williams, long-serving President of the Board of Directors, announced that he would be stepping down from his role as President. Williams, a lifelong resident of Duplin County, has served on the Board since 1985 and held the position of Board President from 2004 to 2025. His leadership has helped guide the Cooperative through decades of growth, innovation, and member-focused progress. Williams will continue representing the West Duplin District.
“We are deeply grateful for Mr. Williams' dedication and steady leadership,” said CEO Don Gatton. “His passion for reliability, affordability, and service has shaped the success and strength of our Cooperative.”
With the President’s seat vacant, Board members voted to elect Kenneth Thornton, Jr. of the East Bladen District as the new President of the Four County EMC Board of Directors. Thornton has served on the Board since 2008 and most recently held the role of Vice President beginning in 2021.
As Thornton assumes his new responsibilities, the Vice President position was filled by G. Clayton Hollingsworth, At-Large Director since 2004. Hollingsworth’s decades of cooperative knowledge and community service make him well-prepared to support the continued progress of Four County EMC.
The Board also re-elected S. Eugene “Gene” Jordan to continue serving as Secretary/Treasurer. Jordan, a long-time Pender County resident, has served on the Board since 1999 and has held the office of Secretary/Treasurer since 2007. He holds NRECA’s highest leadership credential, Director Gold, reflecting his strong commitment to responsible governance.
Commitment to Leadership Excellence
Leadership roles on Four County EMC’s Board of Directors require years of service, specialized training, and a deep commitment to the cooperative mission. Directors elected to officer positions must earn the distinguished Director Gold Certification through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA), the highest designation in NRECA’s Board Education Program.
To achieve this credential, directors must first complete both the Credentialed Cooperative Director (CCD) and Board Leadership Certificate (BLC) programs before pursuing ongoing advanced education focused on fiduciary responsibility, risk management, and strategic planning.
Four County EMC congratulates and extends its appreciation to all members of the Board of Directors for their steadfast service to our communities and their continued focus on member-driven priorities.