*Nominating Committee’s top choice for 2025 Board of Director Candidate for this District

James “Jim” jesse Kyle

Incumbent Director | Gainesville

Brief Bio

My name is James J. Kyle, and I am 81 years old. I’ve had the privilege of serving on the White River Valley Electric Cooperative Board of Directors for the past six years, representing the members of Ozark County with dedication and integrity. A lifelong resident of Ozark County, I was born and raised in Isabella and graduated from Gainesville High School in 1961.

With over 50 years of experience as a preacher and a lifelong commitment to agriculture, I bring both heart and hands-on knowledge to the table. I earned my bachelor’s degree in agriculture from Southwest Missouri State University in 1966 and have proudly taught and advocated for agriculture throughout my life — from substituting for FFA in Gainesville to teaching Veterans Agriculture in Forsyth.

I served my country as a Vietnam veteran from 1968 to 1969, and I spent 32 years in federal service, retiring as USDA FSA Director. In that role, I managed farm programs, oversaw budgets, and handled employee selection and development. That administrative experience has proven vital during my time on the WRVEC board, especially in budgeting and strategic decision-making.

My family has been associated with and utilized White River Valley Electric Cooperative since its conception. I consider it an honor to carry that legacy forward. I remain committed to protecting the best interests of our co-op employees and members — always focused on reliability, accountability, and long-term sustainability for our communities.

Experience and Education

• High School Diploma from Gainesville High School
• Bachelor’s Degree in Agriculture from Missouri State University
• Awards & Honors:
  • Awarded the Bronze Star with Combat “V”
  • the Navy Commendation Medal
  • Honored by the Missouri Senate and House of Representatives for 32 years of service as District Director of the Farm Service Agency, recognizing leadership, dedication, and impact on Missouri’s agricultural communities.
• Community & Board Experience:
  • Over the past six years, I’ve proudly served on the White River Valley Electric Cooperative Board, maintaining a strong attendance record and actively contributing to strategic decisions. I’ve completed 19 NRECA-certified courses, earning the Credentialed Cooperative Director, Board Leadership, and Director Gold credentials—demonstrating my commitment to informed, effective governance. My training includes courses on cybersecurity, capital credits, electric vehicles, broadband, resiliency, equity management, and succession planning. This ongoing professional development equips me to address the evolving challenges of the cooperative. My service reflects a deep dedication to WRVEC’s mission, its members, and the long-term strength of our rural communities.

qualifications

• Jim has been a member of the Cooperative for 54 Years.
• Jim is not employed by any enterprise that competes with WRVEC.
• Jim is not related to anyone employed at the Cooperative.
• With six years on WRVEC’s board and 32 years as USDA FSA Director, Jim brings strong leadership in budgeting, management, and public service. Certified through NRECA, he combines cooperative knowledge, agricultural experience, and a lifetime of community involvement to support WRVEC’s mission and serve its members with dedication and integrity.
• Jim has not received any campaign contributions.

QUESTIONS & Answers

Explain the Cooperative Difference

The “Cooperative Difference” means putting people before profit. As a member-owned organization, WRVEC exists to serve—not to generate income for shareholders. From my perspective, it’s about neighbors helping neighbors, local decision-making, and returning value to members. It reflects responsibility, integrity, and a deep commitment to the communities we live in.

What are three critical issues you believe the Cooperative should focus on in the next few years?

In the coming years, the Cooperative should focus on completing the White River Connect fiber project, ensuring all members have access to reliable broadband. Continued emphasis on serving members with affordable, dependable service and maintaining strong employee relations through fair, sustainable contracts will be essential to long-term success.

What interests you most about serving on the board of directors?

Serving on the board allows me to give back to the community I’ve called home my entire life. I’m passionate about ensuring reliable service, supporting local families, and helping guide the Cooperative’s future. It’s an honor to represent members’ voices and contribute to decisions that directly impact our rural communities.

Are you familiar with the elements of the cooperative business model? Please share what you know about the model at this time:

Yes, I’m familiar with the cooperative business model. It’s member-owned, not-for-profit, and governed by a locally elected board. Decisions are made democratically, and any margins are returned to members. The focus is on service over profit, with transparency, community commitment, and long-term sustainability at its core.

What knowledge and expertise would you bring to White River’s Board and the members?

I bring over 30 years of federal service as USDA FSA Director, six years on the WRVEC board, and certifications from NRECA. My background in agriculture, budgeting, and leadership—combined with a lifelong commitment to community service—equips me to make informed, responsible decisions that benefit members and strengthen the Cooperative.

What is most important to the members of your district?

Members in my district value reliable electric service, affordable rates, and access to high-speed internet through White River Connect. They also care deeply about local representation, transparency, and long-term stability. Ensuring their voices are heard and their needs are met remains my top priority as their board representative.

As a director, how would you promote the co-op in your community and district?

As a director, I promote the co-op by listening to members, sharing updates on projects like White River Connect, and encouraging community involvement. I lead by example through service and communication, helping members understand the co-op’s mission and the benefits of local, member-owned electric service.

What makes you the ideal candidate?

I’m a lifelong resident of the district with deep roots in the community, six years of board experience, and 32 years as USDA FSA Director. I’m NRECA-certified, committed to member service, and bring a strong background in leadership, agriculture, and public service—making me well-prepared to represent and serve our members.