Julie C. Parsley, CEO of the Pedernales Electric Cooperative (PEC), has been named 2019’s best CEO in the nonprofit category by the Austin Business Journal. She was selected by a panel of former “best” CEO winners who reviewed more than 90 nominees.

Award recipients were announced Oct. 3 during a private reception.

“I’m very honored and humbled by this recognition,” Parsley said. “I share this award with the entire PEC team. This wouldn’t be possible without their full support and hard work.”

Now in its 8th year, the Austin Business Journal’s Best CEO awards recognize outstanding leaders across five categories – small, medium or large company, nonprofit and market leaders. Winners must demonstrate a strong record of innovation and outstanding performance, and have a sphere of influence that extends beyond their career.

“On behalf of the entire PEC Board of Directors, we are beyond thrilled for Julie and this well-deserved recognition,” Paul Graf, board chairman and District 6 director, said. “Since joining the cooperative in December 2017, Julie has led PEC to new heights, and we’re inspired to see where her leadership takes us next.”

Earlier this year, the Texas Public Power Association named PEC the winner of its 2019 System Achievement Award.