In June 2006, Governor Kathleen Sebelius restructured her Governor's Council on Physical Fitness as the Governor's Council on Fitness to encompass not only promotion of physical activity but also proper nutrition and a tobacco-free lifestyle.
Under the leadership of KDHE as administered through its Office of Health Promotion, the mission of the Council is to encourage increased physical activity, healthy diets and tobacco use prevention by sharing information with Kansans and partnering with businesses, schools and individuals to promote healthy lifestyles.
In addition to advising the Governor, the council works with medical, dental and other professional societies to promote health and well-being. It also assists educators in developing quality school health and physical education programs.
To encourage Kansans to make healthy changes in their lives, five celebrity ambassadors promote the work of the Council. They include:
- Danny Manning: Former NBA player and Director of Student-Athlete Development for the University of Kansas Men's Basketball Team
- William John: Midfielder/forward for the Kansas City Wizards
- Kevin Saunders: Gold medalist in the Wheelchair Pentathlon at the 1986, 1990, and 1991 World Track and Field Championships
- Albert Guardado, Jr.: Member of the 1996 U.S. Olympic Boxing Team & former professional boxer
- Danni Boatwright: Winner of "Survivor: Guatemala"
George Brett and Lynette Woodard serve as Honorary Co-Chairs of the Council.
Additionally, the Governor's Council on Fitness partners with HealthyKansas to recognize communities, organizations, and individuals demonstrating significant support and leadership for physical activity, good nutrition and tobacco use prevention. For more information on the Governor's Council on Fitness, visit: www.kansasfitness.org or contact Jennifer Church at (785) 296-8060 or jchurch@kdheks.gov.