Indiana Electric Cooperatives (IEC) named Amanda Steeb, director of marketing and communications at Kankakee Valley REMC, the recipient of the 2025 Tom Taylor Award. She was presented the honor during the Marketing, Member Services, and Communicators professional section fall meeting on Oct. 24, with her family and KV REMC CEO Scott Sears in attendance.

The award recognizes an Indiana electric cooperative member services employee who demonstrates excellence in leadership, attitude, and commitment to cooperative principles. Nominations come from peers, and past recipients of the award select the winner. It’s named for C. Tom Taylor, Boone Power’s longtime member services representative, who lived by the philosophy “non sibi, sed aliis” — not for self, but for others.

“Amanda has shown leadership across Kankakee Valley REMC, including guiding junior board initiatives and building comprehensive communication plans for complex projects.” said Sears. “Her impact extends beyond cooperative walls, where she is involved with multiple community efforts and is seen as a model of kindness, optimism, and steady leadership.”

Peers and nominators praised Steeb for consistently going above and beyond her responsibilities, both within the cooperative and throughout her community. One nominator said, “not for self, but for others is a statement that certainly applies to her core. She truly lives her life by this principle and has the heart of a true servant leader.” Whether through volunteer work, mentorship, or quietly doing what’s right, Steeb demonstrates what it means to care. One nominator added, “She understands that strengthening a community means investing in the most vulnerable, and she does so with grace, humility, and purpose.”

With 21 years at the cooperative, Steeb continues to make an impact beyond her work. She serves on the boards of the Starke County Chamber of Commerce and Family House, helping strengthen the community in meaningful ways.