Kentucky's Shining Stars at SECA: Leadership, Legacy, and Future Connections!

KAECE was very well represented at the recent SECA Annual Conference in Houston, Texas!

Houston, Texas, recently played host to the vibrant and inspiring SECA (Southern Early Childhood Association) Conference, and KAECE was there in full force, making our presence felt and our voices heard! We're thrilled to share the highlights of this enriching experience, where leadership, legacy, and a shared passion for early childhood education took center stage.

This year's conference was particularly special, as we celebrated the official start of Stacey Holmes's term as our new KAECE President. We also proudly witnessed Dr. Maria Rutherford step into her new role as a SECA Board Member, and enjoyed the active participation of our VP of Programs, Susan Allen, and our Secretary, Jaesook Gilbert. It was a dynamic team, ready to learn, contribute, and connect with fellow advocates.

SECA's newly adopted Fossils!

But the excitement didn't stop there! SECA also took a moment to honor some remarkable women from Kentucky, affectionately known as "Fossils," who have dedicated years of service to the SECA board and organization. Congratulations to Tricia Platt, Jaesook Gilbert, Terry Green, and Bonnie Rutherford! Their unwavering commitment and continued contributions are truly inspiring. It was a particular joy to share a meal with Mrs. Platt, who served as KAECE President from 1982-1984, hearing her stories and wisdom.

The heart of the conference, as always, was the opportunity to connect with fellow early childhood educators. Sharing ideas, experiences, and a shared passion for nurturing young minds is what makes these gatherings so special. We left Houston feeling energized and inspired, ready to continue our work with renewed enthusiasm.

Looking ahead, we're already buzzing with excitement for the next SECA conference, which will be held in Huntsville, Alabama, in January 2026! Mark your calendars and start making plans to join us for another unforgettable experience. We can't wait to see you there! Let's continue to build a strong, supportive community dedicated to the future of early childhood education.