President
Linda McDermott's journey in public power began in 2003 when she was nominated to LLP's Board of Directors. Since then, she's had the honor of serving in various capacities on the LLP Board- President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer. Each role has deepened her commitment to advocating for consumer-owned utilities, and she is currently proud to serve as president of the Washington Rural Electric Cooperative Association, an affiliate organization of which LLP is a part. Together, we pursue energy policies that empower our members, and protect their continued access to low cost, reliable, clean energy through the Bonneville Power Administration.
As Chair of LLP's "Scholarship & Contributions Committee," Linda directs scholarship funds to deserving students who wish to continue their education and charitable donations and in-kind contributions to organizations like Caring for Kids, Emergency Food Network, Lakewold Gardens, and Lakewood YMCA. These partnerships are essential to uplifting our community and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
As a former Chair of the City of Lakewood's Arts Commission, Linda leads initiatives that beautify public spaces and foster community engagement. Art has a unique power to bring people together, and she believes it's vital for our neighborhoods to reflect the vibrant spirit of the people who live in them.
In her professional life, Linda served as a frontline performance manager for Allstate Insurance Company. Her focus was on transforming the Northwest Property and Casualty group into a model of success- prioritizing customer service, accountability, and loss cost management. This experience taught her the value of leadership and the importance of listening to those being served.
Linda has a Bachelor of Arts degree in Political Science and Economics from Gonzaga University. Additionally, she is a Credentialed Cooperative Director through the National Rural Electric Cooperative Association, further equipping her to lead in this vital sector.
Community service is at the core of who she is. As a member of Lakewood Rotary, Linda has enrolled LLP as a Food Pantry partner to combat food insecurity in our community. She has also volunteered at the American Lake Veterans Hospital and with Clover Park Schools, dedicating her time to those who have served our country and to our youth.
In all that she does, Linda strives to embody the principle of "Service of Self." She is committed to championing our members' interests, and to preserving LLP's right to receive access to reliable, cost-based, clean energy. Her varied experiences at LLP have enabled her to drive meaningful changes in operations, enhance customer service, and amplify our community's impact, all while keeping LLP's rates lower than the prevailing rates of neighboring utilities. It has truly been a privilege to serve, and Linda looks forward to continuing this journey alongside you.