Sara Dillon Pennington

Sara believes the key to transition in Appalachia lies in the idea (and goal) of New Power—the necessity for new economic power, new clean energy power, and new political power. She views such change as key to transitioning this high poverty region into one with a prosperous and sustainable future. In her current position she organizes grassroots campaigns to halt the use of coal-fired power, she runs multiple electric cooperative board campaigns, and organizes co-op members to demand clean, affordable energy and good governance practices. Sara has previously worked as a freelance writer, researcher, web designer and Managing Editor at The Southeast Review.

As a Mel King Fellow, Sara wants to learn about various forms of community economic development with the goal of bringing the unique perspective of economic transition in extractive regions.

Kentuckians For The Commonwealth (Berea, Kentucky) is a statewide citizens organization working for a new balance of power and a just society, and finding solutions to address real world problems. Membership is open to anyone committed to equality, democracy and non-violent change.