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For 30 years, Beth Woodard has shown passion in her job at PowerSouth and demonstrated a strong work ethic, which led to her recognition as a “Woman of Impact.”

Woodard shared what the title means to her. “It is an incredible honor. I certainly do not think of myself as a woman of impact,” she said. “I am just trying to do the best job I can for PowerSouth and my family every day.”

Yellowhammer News chose 20 winners from across the state in their fourth annual “Women of Impact” contest. Woodard has been in her current position as PowerSouth’s Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer since 2018.

She holds a bachelor’s degree in Corporate Finance and Investment Management but also holds a law degree with a license to practice law. “After functioning in a legal capacity for PowerSouth for 26 years, I was offered the CFO position. It has been an exciting change with a steep learning curve I have thoroughly enjoyed,” Woodard said.

Woodard, who grew up in Fort Deposit, Alabama, first began working for PowerSouth in 1991. She said, “As CFO, I am responsible for PowerSouth’s Financial and Administrative Services division, which includes the Finance and Accounting, Financial Planning, Human Resources, Safety and Buildings, and Grounds functions.”

Building rapport with the community is key if one is to be successful. “At PowerSouth, we want to build rapport with Andalusia and the surrounding areas, but we also want to help develop the communities our member systems serve, so they are prepared for any economic development opportunities that may come along,” Woodard said. “Community development has been one of PowerSouth’s core values for the past 20 years.”

When asked about her biggest accomplishment since she started, Woodard said there was not one thing she would claim as her accomplishment. “We work as a team. The support of my coworkers is invaluable.”

Her two children Callen and Cameron both attend the University of Alabama. They are also planning to follow in their parents’ footsteps and attend law school.

PowerSouth Energy Cooperative is located at 2027 East Three Notch Street in Andalusia. For more information e-mail beth.woodard@powersouth.com or call 334-427-3387. “I am so very thankful to be here at PowerSouth. God has richly blessed me with a wonderful career at PowerSouth, my husband Allen, and my kids, Callen and Cameron,” Woodard said.