June 29th, 2006

FKEC HONORS MUNGOVAN WITH ILLUMINATION AWARD

Florida Keys Electric Cooperative recently honored employee Barbara (Bean) Mungovan as the third recipient of the company’s "Illumination Award."

Mungovan was selected for the award not only for performing well in her position at FKEC, but also for her dedication to the community, her support of her co-workers, and her volunteer work for countless charitable causes.

"Barbara has a big heart and is a tireless volunteer," said FKEC CEO Scott Newberry. "She also has a great sense of humor and is always thinking of new ways to make company events and meetings more fun and entertaining for everyone. She has a great attitude and is very deserving of this recognition."

During her 18 years at the co-op, she has organized annual fund-raisers for the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life and has spearheaded efforts to collect supplies and donations for anyone in need, including hurricane victims, United States soldiers overseas, abused women and children, and community members. Last year, she created a memorial board honoring all of Florida’s fallen soldiers to display in the community and at FKEC.

"Barbara is always there for anyone who needs anything," said FKEC Director of Environmental Affairs and nominating co-worker Deb Shaw, Ph.D.

Mungovan was nominated by her fellow employees and selected for the award based on: outstanding service to FKEC, community service, daily performance, attitude, personal growth, safety record and loyalty.

When accepting her award, Mungovan credited her co-workers for always helping her help others.

Mungovan joined FKEC in 1988 as a Utility Person in the Warehouse and continues in that position. She joined FKEC with 11 years experience as one of the first women to be hired at Eastern Airlines Aircraft Overhaul Maintenance Department. During her tenure at Eastern, she was one of only 120 employees to earn special recognition out of 6,000 employees.

Mungovan is currently active in the local chapter of the Women of the Moose and has been honored as that group’s Woman of the Year. She is also past Senior Regent and has earned her College of Regents Degree.

In addition, Mungovan is very involved in St. Justin Martyr Catholic Church and in the fundraising efforts of the church's Women's Club.

Mungovan is well known locally for writing and publishing timely poetry for special occasions, memorial poems to remember local individuals, and topical poems for current events. She has been writing poetry since she was a child and has written for family, friends, co-workers and her community.

She has seven children, 13 grandchildren, and eight great-grandchildren.