Alumni Profiles
Hazel Ledford Celebrates Birthday With Honors Program Students
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By Chelsea Kirk
Posted 090824
In late May 2009, Hazel Ledford shared her 90th birthday with students from the University of Kentucky Honors Program. Ledford, who is a UK graduate from the class of 1940, enjoyed sharing stories of her time at the university with the students, many of whom will graduate in 2011. The students spent three weeks in the Somerset area for a class entitled “Living Mindfully in the Natural World,” an Honors Program pro-seminar centered on self-discipline, gardening, and healthy living.
First United Methodist Church, Somerset, Ky., was the site of the first birthday celebration given by Ledford’s four daughters, two of whom attended UK. It was followed by a celebration at Slate Branch Retreat House where the students stayed for the duration of their class. Emily Pellegrini, one of the UK students present at the party, said “I enjoyed talking with Hazel Ledford and learning from her experiences and wisdom.” Dr. Sonya Jones, the instructor of the class, arranged the event.
Students seated with Ledford are, from left, Chelsea Kirk and Emily Pellegrini; standing, Lura Cash, Lauren Vanhook, Daniel Honeycutt, Marie Atwood and Courtney Cripe.