From First Workshop to Lifelong Mission: A Conservation Journey with KACEE

From First Workshop to Lifelong Mission: A Conservation Journey with KACEE. Keri Harris, former KACEE Board President, shares about how attending a single workshop in 2003 changed the trajectory of her conservation work, igniting an ongoing 20+ year partnership between Franklin County Conservation District and the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education (KACEE)

Since 2001, I’ve had the privilege of serving as District Manager for the Franklin County Conservation District in Ottawa, Kansas. In this role, I’ve worked closely with landowners and producers to implement non-regulatory conservation and educational programs—initiatives designed to protect and sustain our natural resources for future generations. Whether through cost-share programs, outreach, or demonstration projects, my focus has always been on making conservation both accessible and impactful at the local level.

But conservation isn’t just about land—it’s about learning. And that’s where my journey with the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education (KACEE) began.

But conservation isn’t just about land—it’s about learning. And that’s where my journey with the Kansas Association for Conservation and Environmental Education (KACEE) began.

Discovering KACEE: A Turning Point

In 2003, I attended my first Project WET workshop hosted by KACEE. That single workshop opened the door to a world of high-quality, science-based educational tools designed to support both formal and non-formal educators. It was clear from the start that KACEE’s mission aligned with mine—bringing conservation education into classrooms and communities in a meaningful way.

Soon after, I began facilitating and promoting Project Learning Tree, Project WET, and Project WILD across our region. Supporting KACEE events quickly became part of my professional rhythm—whether that meant helping organize the Topeka Water Festival, volunteering at the annual Kansas Environmental Education Conference, supporting the yearly awards celebration, or contributing to fundraising efforts.

Leadership, Recognition, and a Seat at the Table

My involvement with KACEE led to incredible opportunities. I was honored to serve on the development committee for the Kansas Environmental Literacy Plan, represent the state at the NAAEE ee360 Leadership Conference, and participate in the Kansas Solutioneers project. In 2015, I was nominated to the KACEE Board of Directors, where I proudly served for ten years, including time as Board President.

Along the way, I was deeply humbled to receive the 2012 Award for Excellence in Conservation and Agriculture and, most recently, the 2025 John K. Strickler Award. These recognitions mean a great deal—but more than anything, they’re reminders of the value of showing up, giving back, and building community.

These recognitions mean a great deal—but more than anything, they’re reminders of the value of showing up, giving back, and building community.

Why KACEE Matters

What makes KACEE special is its unwavering commitment to inclusivity and open dialogue. At every event and meeting, you’ll find a welcoming space—no matter your background, experience, or level of expertise in environmental education. KACEE isn’t about prescribing what to think; it’s about equipping people—especially students—with the tools to think critically, ask questions, and engage meaningfully with the natural world.

 KACEE isn’t about prescribing what to think; it’s about equipping people—especially students—with the tools to think critically, ask questions, and engage meaningfully with the natural world.

Over the past 55 years, KACEE has thrived thanks to those who came before—those who found their seat at the table and helped carry the mission forward. I’m proud to be part of that legacy. And I’ll always be grateful for that first workshop that helped shape a career full of purpose, partnerships, and passion for conservation.