The Kentucky Extension Homemakers Association (KEHA) convened at the Owensboro Convention Center May 1-4, 2017 for their 84th Annual Meeting.  More than 550 attendees from across the state took part in the four-day meeting which focused on “Mapping Our Future”.

The annual state meeting provides a time for celebration, recognition, learning and fun.  Attendees participated in educational seminars addressing topics ranging from food fads to photography to leadership development.  A series of concurrent workshops provided training in each of KEHA’s eight educational program areas of emphasis. Keynote speakers Tim Farmer and Colene Elridge shared messages focused on overcoming life’s challenges and living your legacy.

KEHA celebrated forty years of support for the University of Kentucky Ovarian Cancer Research and Screening Program with a teal-themed banquet.  Special plaques were presented to Dr. Edward Pavlik, Research Director for the UK Ovarian Screening Program. These plaques honored Virginia McCandless, the KEHA member who led the initiation of KEHA’s outreach and support in 1977, and Dr. John van Nagell, Jr., the medical director for the program. In addition, a check for $37,257 was presented to Dr. Pavlik. 

Through a special project this spring, KEHA members donated 1,080 pillowcases and more than 200 quilts and comforters to the Center for Courageous Kids (CCK). Elizabeth Chapman, Director of Development for CCK, was in attendance to accept these donations. Chapman complimented KEHA for their dedicated support to the Center since its opening 10 years ago.

The KEHA Choir performed for the second consecutive year, continuing the renewal of a tradition dating back to the organization’s early years.  Thirty-eight KEHA members from across the state joined together to entertain at the KEHA general session.  Under the director of Wendy Hood, Mercer County KEHA member, the choir delivered an outstanding performance.

The KEHA Annual Meeting concluded with an awards breakfast and the installation of newly elected officers. KEHA is a membership organization dedicated to volunteer service, and the achievements realized each year are noteworthy.