During its annual professional development conference March 2-4, the Alabama Community Education Association selected Franklin County Extension Coordinator Katernia Cole-Coffey for its Outstanding Benefactor Award.

The inscription reads “for outstanding contributions that foster the programs of Community Education.”

“Katernia has been a champion for education in Franklin County,” explained Rep. Jamie Kiel. “Her work with students during and after the school day has made a lasting impact on their lives. From 4-H to after-school programs and summer programs, she and her team do a wonderful job assisting our classroom teachers.”

For Cole-Coffey, being selected for the award was a pleasant surprise.

“The entire conference was wonderful, and I’m incredibly honored to be chosen for the Outstanding Benefactor Award,” she said.

She explained the significance is not only in receiving the award.

“It’s incredibly rewarding to have the work that is being done with the Franklin County After-school Program recognized across the state of Alabama through the ACEA conference.”