Connie Hector, this  year's Honored Quilter, Connie began sewing at the age of 12, starting with clothing and later expanding to home décor items. After retiring in 2016 from her career as a physical therapist and public education administrator, she embraced quilting as a creative outlet—a craft she first discovered in 1986 while still working. This newfound passion led her to collect fabrics and create quilts for family and friends. Her dedication to the art prompted her to invest in a long-arm quilting machine affectionately named “Millie” after her mother-in-law.

Joining the Umpqua Valley Quilters’ Guild provided Connie with inspiration and the opportunity to explore a variety of patterns and techniques. Over time, her style evolved to feature bold, vibrant colors, a hallmark of many of her quilts today.