The Dalles, OR – June 10, 2025 – Northern Wasco County People’s Utility District
(NWCPUD or the District) proudly announces that Roger Kline, General Manager and CEO,
has received the prestigious Mark Crisson Leadership and Managerial Excellence Award by
the American Public Power Association (APPA). This national recognition honors public
power utility and association managers who bring their organizations to new levels of
excellence, lead by example, and inspire their employees and staff to improve processes,
services, and operations. Kline is the first Pacific Northwest utility leader to receive this
award in recent years.
The award was presented today at a ceremony during APPA’s National Conference in New
Orleans, Louisiana.
“For many years, Roger has demonstrated exceptional leadership – not just in his
community of Wasco County, Oregon, but also on the regional and national levels,” said
APPA President & CEO Scott Corwin. “He is laser-focused on providing excellent day-today service to his customers while also keeping an eye on the horizon and preparing the
utility – and public power – to rise to the demands and challenges of tomorrow.”
This award recognizes Kline’s strategic vision of expanding NWCPUD’s services to address
broader community needs. His innovative approach includes spearheading governmental
partnerships and collaborations with regional organizations to provide essential services,
demonstrating his ability to optimize the District’s expertise and resources to solve
complex community challenges.
“I’m deeply honored to receive this prestigious award from APPA,” said Kline. “Leading by
example and inspiring continuous improvement have always been central to my approach.
This award truly reflects the collective efforts of our entire organization as we’ve worked
together to bring our utility to new levels of excellence while staying true to the public
power mission of providing reliable, affordable service to our community.”