JPS Kathy Atkinson Wins Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award

JPS Kathy Atkinson received the Duke Energy Citizenship & Service Award during McDowell Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Membership Banquet. The event was held on March 15, 2018 at Tom Johnson Camping World in Marion, NC.

The coveted award is jointly given by McDowell Chamber of Commerce and Duke Energy ‘to individuals or groups who make a difference in their communities or places of work by using their time, talents and compassion to positively impact the lives of others.’  A spirit of fostering citizenship, volunteerism, and improving the community’s quality of life are overarching criteria for the recipient.

For decades, Kathy has made an impact improving the quality of life for those in Marion, McDowell County, and WNC.  The Corpening YMCA in Marion serves a wide socioeconomic and demographic range; Kathy played an instrumental role in its successful establishment.  She has not only served as a Strong Kids Campaign Leader to ensure good health and wellness for area youngsters but also as a Board of Director for the Early Childhood Enrichment Center, helping to ensure McDowell County’s young have strong beginnings and a vibrant, family-oriented workforce.

Kathy has been a consistent, positive role model of strong, well-balanced female leadership.  During her career as a CPA and ultimately a Shareholder at Johnson Price Sprinkle PA, she raised three children with her husband, Tom.  Under Kathy’s leadership, the McDowell Trail Association, Carson House, Food Pantry, and Relay for Life benefitted from JPS volunteer service.

Congratulations Kathy and thank you for positively impacting the lives of others.