Of course, it is obvious what credentials are needed to lead a stellar institution such as Saint Joseph’s University – doctoral-level education, various certifications, decades of experience, a well-articulated vision, personal magnetism, etc.
On Thursday, April 27, Dr. Cheryl A. McConnell, recently appointed as SJU’s 29th President, visited The Children’s School at Saint John’s in Bala Cynwyd during story time.
This story time was made extra-special by including Dr. McConnell’s favorite children’s book titled “I Love You THIS Much” by Lynn Hodges and Sue Buchanan of Nashville, Tennessee.
Based on Ephesians 3:18, “How wide and long and high and deep is the love of Christ,” the story is “a gentle lullaby of love” for all ages.
Once introduced to the children and their teachers by Executive Director Margot Adams and School Director Sharon Walton, Dr. McConnell spoke softly and kindly to the children of three separate classes.
Each time in the read-aloud, when Dr. McConnell came to the refrain, “I Love You THIS Much,” she lifted her arms in a sweeping motion to demonstrate the expanse of love.
Precious moments occurred when each child and teacher spread out their arms, in synch with Dr. McConnell, took a deep breath, and chortled “I Love You THIS Much.”
Of course, with a giggle, Dr. McConnell engaged the children by asking questions, say, “How much do you love your parents?” and the arms went out and up.
Especially heartwarming was the response of a little one who answered “to infinity!” And another child, in sharing about goodnight hugs and kisses, shouted “I give my parents a BEAR HUG!”
Such was the very rewarding time for all at The Children’s School at Saint John’s, adding brightness and love on an overcast, drippy morning in Bala Cynwyd.
And, yes, to the credentials quintessential for university leadership, love of children – of all ages – and a sense of joy must be added.
The Children’s School at Saint John’s was founded in 1997 to provide developmentally appropriate programs in fostering the development of children ages three months through six years from the families of Saint Joseph’s University, The Church of Saint John’s Lower Merion, and the community-at-large.
Over the past quarter-century, The Children’s School has earned and maintained significant achievements: Certification by the Department of Public Welfare (DPW), a Private Academic License through the Department of Education (PA), Accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), and a four-star rating from the Pennsylvania Keystone STARS Initiative. For information go to: https://www.childrens-school.org
