Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet
Marcheta Sparrow Named Chair of 2011 KECC Campaign

Press Release Date:  Friday, March 18, 2011  
Contact Information:  Gil Lawson, 502-564-4270 ext 168
or Terry Tolan, KECC administrator,
terry.tolan@uwky.org or 502-589-2296
 


FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Governor Steve Beshear has named Marcheta Sparrow, secretary of the Tourism, Arts and Heritage Cabinet, as chair of the 2011 Kentucky Employees Charitable Campaign (KECC).  Secretary Sparrow brings a long history of state government experience, leadership and a love for Kentucky to the role. 

 

“I am very passionate about our state and I am honored that Governor Beshear asked me to lead the KECC this year.  From Paducah to Ashland, and everywhere in between, we are blessed with the natural resources and attractions that make Kentucky one of the most beautiful states in the country,” Sparrow said. “But our most important resource is each other.  Through KECC, state employees reach out a hand to help their fellow Kentuckians.  By giving of ourselves, we are showing that Kentuckians stick together.  Generosity is just part of who we are.”

 

Secretary Sparrow’s career in Kentucky tourism spans more than 30 years in both the public and private sector.  Throughout that career, which began as a tour guide in the State Capitol, she has sought to highlight the best of Kentucky.  She also understands firsthand the importance of giving. As a young working mother and part-time college student, she benefited from the help of a community-supported daycare program.

 

“The assistance I received at a crucial time in my life helped make all the difference and I want to make sure that kind of help is available for Kentucky families today,” Sparrow said.


KECC is a partnership of state employees and six accredited statewide charities, working together to improve the lives of our families, friends and neighbors throughout the Commonwealth.  The campaign is run by state employees and provides the opportunity to make an investment in Kentucky’s future through the state’s payroll deduction process.  The KECC charities represent more than 1,000 charitable programs that address the health and human service needs of all Kentuckians.

 

Secretary Sparrow and Terry Tolan, KECC administrator and president of United Way of Kentucky, will begin their work by meeting with Cabinet leadership and Constitutional Officers.  These meetings will focus on preparing for the campaign, reviewing past results and looking for ways to help Kentucky employees give back. 

 

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