PINEVILLE, La., - Cleco Corp. (NYSE:CNL) announced today Dilek Samil, president and chief operating officer of Cleco Power LLC, a subsidiary of Cleco Corp., is leaving the company effective May 23, 2010.

Samil joined Cleco in 2001 as chief financial officer and was promoted to president and COO of Cleco Power in 2005. Under her leadership, Cleco Power completed the most ambitious construction project in its 75-year history. In addition to the completion of the $1 billion Rodemacher Unit 3 power plant, Samil oversaw the company's first full rate case in more than 20 years.

"Dilek has played an important role in shaping the future of Cleco Power, and we are grateful for her contribution," said Michael Madison, president and CEO of Cleco Corp. "We wish her the best in her future endeavors."