Guam Power Authority General Manager honored with accountability award

The Guam Power Authority announced that its General Manager, John M. Benavente, has been named the recipient of the prestigious 2024 Professor John M. Phillips Excellence in Government Accountability Award. 

The award is presented by the Association of Government Accountants Guam Chapter.

This award recognizes Benavente’s exemplary public service, leadership, and commitment to advancing government accountability throughout his career. 

It also honors government professionals who demonstrate outstanding leadership, high ethical standards, and innovation in public service. 

Under his leadership, GPA has set higher standards for operational excellence, ethical practices, and innovative management strategies. His dedication has strengthened both the organization and the community, embodying the values that the award represents.

With over 40 years of service with GPA, with over 26 as General Manager, Benavente has led the Authority’s strategic transformation from a traditional utility to a modern, clean energy, customer-centric public power utility. 

Through Benavente’s leadership, GPA has made significant progress toward sustained clean, reliable, resilient, affordable energy for all island ratepayers. 

Benavente is an American Public Power Association 2023 James D. Donovan Individual Achievement Award recipient. He is a licensed Professional Engineer. 

He holds a Master of Science in Engineering Management from the University of Missouri (Rolla) and a Bachelor of Science Mechanical Engineering degree from the University of Dayton.

“I am truly honored to receive the Professor John M. Phillips Excellence in Government Accountability Award on behalf of our customers," said Benavente. 

“This recognition reflects not only my efforts but the dedication of my entire team at GPA. It is a privilege to serve our community and be part of an organization that prioritizes integrity, accountability, and innovation. I am grateful to the AGA Guam Chapter for this meaningful honor and inspired to continue working towards the highest standards in public service,” Benavente added.