This year marks a remarkable milestone for Kelly Sabol, who is celebrating 20 years with the KU Area Health Education Center (AHEC). Originally hired as a continuing education coordinator, Kelly stepped into a role that perfectly matched her passion for health care education and community outreach. Since then, she has grown alongside the organization, helping shape its mission and programs for rural Kansas, now as program director.  

In two decades working with the AHEC, Kelly has witnessed — and contributed to — tremendous changes for the department and those we serve. “We’ve expanded our professional development programs and furthered our outreach across rural Kansas,” she says. “Launching initiatives like our Health Career Promotion programs and attaining Joint Accreditation has made our support for health care teams even stronger.” 

Kelly credits much of her professional development to her longtime colleague Mary Beth Warren, who previously served as executive director of AHEC until her retirement in 2023. “Her mentorship has been invaluable,” Kelly reflects. “I’ve learned so much from her about leadership and collaboration. Her impact is always present in my work.” 

Reflecting on the past 20 years, Kelly shares: 

“These past 20 years at AHEC have been a journey of learning, growth and service to rural Kansas. I’ve had the privilege to work alongside incredible people and contribute to initiatives that have made a real impact. Looking back, I’m proud of all the AHEC has accomplished, and I look forward to its continued growth and success.” 

Congratulations to Kelly Sabol on two decades of dedicated service and leadership at KU AHEC!