MEA Energy Association Honors Tereq Ghunaim of Consumers Energy with Compassion in Action Award

MEA Energy Association (MEA) is proud to present the Compassion in Action Award to Tereq Ghunaim of Consumers Energy in recognition of his courageous actions to rescue an elderly homeowner from a house fire.

While conducting a routine overnight survey, Tereq Ghunaim, a lead advanced methane detection driver, noticed a house on fire and immediately recognized the danger. Rather than simply reporting the emergency and waiting for help to arrive, he took action to make sure those in and around the home were safe.

Ghunaim helped rescue an elderly homeowner from the burning house and then turned his attention to neighboring homes, helping alert and evacuate nearby families as the fire threatened the area. His quick response ensured residents were moved to safety before firefighters arrived on the scene. Ghunaim’s awareness, decisive action, and willingness to put the safety of others first helped prevent a dangerous situation from becoming a tragedy.

“Tereq’s actions demonstrate exactly what we hope to recognize through the Compassion in Action Award — someone recognizing that others are in danger and choosing to act,” said John Gann, senior vice president of membership and marketing at MEA. “His awareness, quick response, and willingness to put the safety of others first helped protect not only the homeowner, but families throughout the surrounding area.”

The Compassion in Action Award replaces the MEA Life Sustaining and Meritorious Service Awards, bringing both forms of recognition together under one award. It honors individuals whose selfless actions demonstrate extraordinary care, quick thinking, and dedicated service to others — from lifesaving intervention during an emergency to exceptional service that significantly advances safety, operational excellence, or an organization’s mission.

Compassion in Action celebrates the spirit of service that drives MEA members to act courageously, thoughtfully, and with an unwavering commitment to others.

Learn more about this and other MEA awards at MEAenergy.org/awards.