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Shay Batton receives Southern Style
Excellence Award
Georgia Power President and CEO Mike Garrett presented the Southern Style Excellence Award for Unquestionable Trust to Shay Batton, Columbus region service representative.
Batton was recognized for taking personal responsibility for every customer she serves, and for her work in the community. She is known for putting herself in the customer's shoes while striving for positive resolutions in every situation.
"Shay treats each customer as if it were her first customer of the day," said Kathy Ames, Columbus customer service manager. "No matter how routine the request, Shay treats her customers with respect and courtesy. If she tells a customer she is going to do something, she follows through on her promises."
Batton also is viewed by her peers as knowledgeable, professional and always willing to help. She is instrumental in leading the training efforts of new team members and took it upon herself to put together a reference binder with processes, helpful hints and other important on-the-job information.
Outside of her daily job, Batton plays an active role in the community, serving on the partners in education committee, which aids in improving the academic performance of George Washington Carver High School students. She is a member of the Columbus Citizens of Georgia Power chapter, a presenter of Power Town demonstrations, and she makes monthly energy saving presentations to the Columbus Housing Authority for new tenants.
"We are very fortunate to have someone with Shay's character in our region and in our company. She exemplifies Unquestionable Trust in her interactions with her peers and co-workers, her customers and the external entities she deals with," said Jacki Lowe, West Region vice president. "It's people like Shay who reinforce our motto of being 'A citizen wherever we serve.' We are very proud of Shay and excited she has been chosen to be recognized this way."
The Southern Style Excellence Award is given three times a year to coincide with Energy Exchange meetings that observe the King Holiday, Independence Day and Veterans Day. The award recognizes a non-supervisory, full-time Georgia Power employee who demonstrates Southern Style on and off the job. The winners receive a $1,500 check to be given to the charity of their choice.
Batton will donate the $1,500 to the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation.
"My son has cystic fibrosis so the cause is near and dear to my heart," said Batton. "I'm happy I can give back. I am very humbled by this award. It is the greatest honor I have ever received."