The CHES (pronounced chez) designation signifies that an individual has met eligibility requirements for, and has successfully passed a competency-based examination demonstrating skill and knowledge of the Seven Areas of Responsibility of Health Educators, upon which the credential is based.

The National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc., or NCHEC (pronounced N-Check), is a nonprofit organization whose mission is:

To improve the practice of health education and to serve the public and profession of health education by certifying health education specialists, promoting professional development, and strengthening professional preparation and practice.

After more than a decade of work, committed health educators representing the health education profession established NCHEC in April 1988. Today there are more than 8,000 individuals actively carrying the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) designation.

Every year the Commission seeks nominations for vacancies on the Board of Commissioners and three Division Boards. All CHES are welcome to complete the nomination form that's available in the CHES Bulletin and on the NCHEC Web site each spring. NCHEC's Marketing Committee functions on a volunteer basis. All CHES are welcome. Those interested in serving should contact the executive director.

Additional opportunities are listed on the website periodically.