As the daughter of a disabled Vietnam veteran, Heather French Henry has experienced the pain and suffering that can come with military service. Throughout her life she followed her father into the halls of VA hospitals for treatments, experienced his night terrors and stood by his side in his miraculous journey “home” from the terrors of war.
After winning the title of Miss America 2000 she traveled over 300,000 miles across the United States on a national speaking tour entitled “Our Forgotten Heroes: Honoring Our Nations Homeless Veterans.” Throughout her year she not only visited veterans facilities meeting and talking with veterans but her platform often took her to our nation’s capital to lobby members of Congress and Senate on veterans issues and legislation. During her tour veteran’s healthcare issues became another serious focus and a second campaign began entitled “Fighting the Silent Enemy: Hepatitis C.” Touring the country with Hepatitis C advocates screenings were held and hundreds of veterans were screened and made aware of the dangers of Hepatitis C.
Even after her year of service Heather is still seen traveling across the country to raise awareness and funding for veterans issues through the Heather French Foundation for Veterans, Inc. established during her tour as Miss America 2000. She is dedicated to raising the ideas of patriotism by educating young and old alike about the sacrifices made by the men and women who have served our nation.
In 2014, Governor Beshear appointed Heather as the commissioner of the Kentucky Department of Veterans Affairs to oversee nearly 900 employees, 4 state veterans centers, 5 state veterans cemeteries, and a wide variety of programs and services for veterans and their families. To continue her service, Governor Bevn then asked her to stay on as the deputy commissioner in his administration. Under her guidence, the department maintained it's budget, created legislative policies for veterans and saw the completion of two facilities.
In Heather’s own words: “I will always be the daughter of a veteran and therefore I will always honor those who fell by continuing to serve those who live.”
ABOUT HEATHER
FEATURED
VETERANS ISSUES
December 2, 2015
March 19, 2015
Speaking at Metcalfe County Middle School in honor of scholastic achievement. Heather remained on hand to tour the facility and to talk with students about the importance of education. During the appearance Heather spoke about her struggles to achieve her dream of Miss America while continuing her education at the University of Cincinnati obtaining her Bachelor of Science in Fashion Design and her Masters of Design. She spoke to many students after wards and was on hand to sign autographs and take photos.
Heather French Henry joined the UK Womens Basketball Team to honor Women Veterans during Senior Night as they played South Carolina.
Heather joins Republic Bank in their support of the Girl Scouts of Kentuckiana "Operation Cookie" campaign. Republic bank has long been an advocate for our military and has continued it's support for the Girls Scouts of Kentuckiana's Military appreciation.
NEWS
2013
Heather is honored by USA CARES with the Patriot Award for her committment to veterans and Military.
Heather is honored by Governor Steve Beshear with the naming of the Heather French Henry Highway in Maysville, Ky.
AWARDS
AMVETS SILVER HELMUT AWARD
HEATHER FRENCH HENRY
Designer & Illustrator | Host & Speaker | Military Veteran Advocate
Step into Heathers's world with her new line of Christmas Ornaments, paper goods, & illustrations. With three distinct collections inspired by Heather's favorite movies and moments. There's something inspiring and beautiful for everyone with the Heather French Henry Collection.
“During her year of service as Miss America 2000, Heather worked tirelessly on behalf of our nation’s homeless veterans who have never had a better advocate. Heather has been called ‘every veteran’s daughter’ and I was priviledged to recognize her contributions by naming H.R. 936 on her behalf.” –Congressman Lane Evans
Heather has graced the cover of over 20 magazines and been featured in dozens of publications nationwide.
Heather French Henry won the title of Miss America 2000, the first to be crowned in the new millenium. As the daughter of a Vietnam Veterans, Heather used her national title to promote military veterans issues. She continues that work today.
Heather is a sought after speaker and emcee for conventions and shows nationwide. She has been featured on national TV, as well as, on stage. View more of Heather's work.
Kentucky Prostate Cancer Coalition provides FREE Prostate Cancer Screenings.
Saving Floyds Fork
The Future Fund has saved over 6000 acres along Floyds Fork in Louisville, KY.
The Rosemary Clooney Museum houses the famous White Christmas Movie Collection in Augusta, KY.
Heather French Foundation for Veterans, Inc. promotes education and awareness of military veterans and their service to our country.