Boone electric director recognized as co-op champion
Joel Bullard, longtime director and former board president for Boone Electric Cooperative, Columbia, is the latest electric co-op champion to be inducted into the prestigious Missouri Institute of Cooperatives Hall of Fame. He joins fellow Boone Electric directors Jay Turner and Keith Schnarre, who are also members of the MIC Hall of Fame.
Joel’s honor follows a lifetime dedicated to service, leadership and unwavering commitment to cooperative principles. With more than 30 years of active involvement in cooperatives, his impact resonates across multiple spheres, leaving an indelible mark on those he serves.
His tenure at Boone Electric Cooperative spans nearly three decades, where he ascended to the roles of vice president from 1995 to 2001 and president from 2002 to 2023. His visionary leadership at Boone Electric was marked by a steadfast dedication to promoting clean energy initiatives while ensuring reliable and affordable energy for members. His advocacy for green energy and commitment to sustainability reflect his forward-thinking approach to cooperative management.
Beyond Boone Electric, Joel’s influence extends to Central Electric Power Cooperative, where he has been actively engaged on its board since 1995. His leadership as president of the National Cooperative Services Corp. during a period of growth for the National Cooperative Bank underscores his stalwart support for cooperatives nationally.
Joel’s service extends far beyond the cooperative sector, with notable contributions to his community and country. From his military service in the Army National Guard to his involvement in various civic organizations, Joel’s dedication to serving others is evident in every aspect of his life. His leadership on the Southern Boone County R-1 School Board, the Southern Boone County Fire Protection Board and numerous other community committees exemplify his commitment to making a difference.
Notably, Joel oversaw the recent $30 million renovation of Boone Electric’s Columbia headquarters, the single largest capital expenditure in the cooperative’s history. His leadership and foresight not only saved the cooperative millions but also ensured a brighter, more sustainable future for its members.
Joel’s life journey embodies the essence of service, leadership and unwavering dedication to cooperative values. His legacy will continue to inspire and shape the cooperative movement for generations to come.
The Missouri Institute of Cooperatives is a nonprofit membership organization dedicated to the development of education programs that provide a better understanding of the cooperative business model.