ABOUT THE GOVERNOR JAMES M . COX AWARD This award , named for our founder , recognizes those whose stellar job performance exemplifies What We Stand For . Selection does not depend on winners ’ tenure or role within the company , but rather on what they ’ ve done — or are currently doing — through their work at Cox to build a better future . It is one of the highest honors for Cox employees .
ANTHONY POPE As senior vice president and region manager for Cox Communications , Anthony Pope has led his employees in the Southeast through 18 natural disasters or disaster threats in just five years .
In 2021 , he faced one of his biggest challenges yet when Hurricane Ida devastated Louisiana and left millions without power . Anthony and his team immediately sprang into action to ensure the safety of our employees and restore service to Cox customers .
Anthony ’ s unwavering leadership and dedication to meeting the needs of others have earned him the Governor James M . Cox Award .
A QUICK RESPONSE After Ida passed , Anthony and the Southeast team accounted for 100 % of Cox ’ s employees in 36 hours , a company record and much faster than the two weeks it had taken following Hurricane Katrina . Those impacted by the storm were quickly able to obtain a total of $ 400,000 in transitional assistance through the Cox Employee Relief Fund to use on things like roof tarps , food , water and temporary shelter .
MAKING IT PERSONAL Field Operations Director Darryl Gilmore and his family were among those who needed help , since they suffered damage to their roof and had no power . Anthony generously opened his home to the Gilmores . “ Anthony came to the rescue in a major way for me and my family ,” said Darryl . “ He allowed us to stay at his home until power was restored . I can ’ t thank Mr . Pope enough for his big heart and over-the-top hospitality .”
With hundreds of Cox employees like Anthony and Darryl dealing with the personal impact of the storm , other Cox team members from across the region — and even as far away as Arizona — came to Louisiana to support our employees and customers . Together , they were able to get nearly all Cox customers back online within hours of power being restored .
Watch videos and read more about Roger ’ s and Anthony ’ s stories , as well as past honorees , at InSideCox . com / govcoxaward and InSideCox . com / coxchambersaward .
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