Country music icon Dolly Parton was officially named a Kentucky Colonel by Governor Andy Beshear on Tuesday. The prestigious title, the highest honor a governor can bestow, was awarded during Parton’s visit to Lexington.
The recognition came in celebration of Parton’s Imagination Library program, which recently expanded to reach all counties in Kentucky. Since its inception in 1995, the program has aimed to foster a love for reading among young children.
Governor Beshear’s award acknowledges Parton’s efforts to promote goodwill and community spirit worldwide through her literacy initiative.