#United States #Atlanta #Georgia Power #Valerie Montgomery Rice #Morehouse School of Medicine

Valerie Montgomery Rice Joins Georgia Power Board of Directors

In a significant move for representation and leadership within the energy sector, Georgia Power has announced that Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice, a distinguished medical professional, will join its board of directors. An accomplished figure in the healthcare community, Dr. Montgomery Rice is currently the president and CEO of Morehouse School of Medicine (MSM), where she has made substantial contributions since taking on the role in 2011.

Recognized as a pioneer in her field, Dr. Montgomery Rice was the first woman to lead the freestanding medical institution, which is celebrated for producing primary care physicians and is renowned for its commitment to social missions in healthcare. Under her guidance, MSM has significantly extended its influence throughout Georgia, setting up regional campuses in Albany and Columbus that not only enhance access to medical education but also foster local workforce development and economic growth. This commitment resonates with Georgia Power's mission to support the communities it serves.

Kim Greene, chairman and CEO of Georgia Power, expressed his enthusiasm about Dr. Montgomery Rice's appointment, stating, "Valerie is an incredible leader who has helped Morehouse School of Medicine grow and excel across the board. She knows our state well and is respected across various sectors, which will greatly benefit us as we strive to meet the energy needs of a growing Georgia."

Before her tenure at MSM, Dr. Montgomery Rice held multiple faculty positions and was the founding director of the Center for Women's Health Research at Meharry Medical College. This center was one of the first dedicated to investigating diseases that affect women of color disproportionately. Her extensive experience also includes leadership roles on numerous boards, including UnitedHealth Group and various Georgia-specific committees. This diverse background uniquely positions her to contribute to the strategic direction of Georgia Power.

Dr. Montgomery Rice is a Georgia native, holding a bachelor's degree in chemistry from the Georgia Institute of Technology and a medical degree from Harvard Medical School. She has received various honors for her contributions to health and education, including the Horatio Alger Award. Georgia Trend Magazine has recognized her as one of the 100 Most Influential Georgians multiple times, underlining her impact on state-wide initiatives.

Georgia Power has a longstanding commitment to education and community engagement, contributing over $10.6 million to educational initiatives in 2024 alone. This includes a rich history of supporting Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) like Morehouse School of Medicine. In recognition of this partnership, Georgia Power received MSM's prestigious Louis C. Brown MD Vanguard Award for their role in promoting health and well-being.

As Georgia Power continues to prioritize accountability and community upliftment, Dr. Montgomery Rice's strategic leadership is poised to enhance the company's efforts in serving customers and fostering growth across the state. Her induction into the board marks a new chapter for both Georgia Power and the local communities it impacts, showcasing the importance of diverse leadership in addressing the complex challenges of modern energy needs.

In conclusion, Dr. Valerie Montgomery Rice's appointment to Georgia Power's board is a landmark step toward cultivating a more inclusive leadership landscape. Her dedication to community service, education, and health positions her to make meaningful contributions to the energy sector's evolution in Georgia, ensuring that local priorities align with the company's vision for sustainable growth and corporate responsibility.