Child Development Center Hosts Annual Scholarship Benefit

Pam Hutchins Receives the Child Development Center Humanitarian Award

The spirit of Robin McManus was felt by some 100 guests, including members of McManus’ immediate family – Kelly, Katie and Jerry McManus, who gathered at the Child Development Center on the Kent Campus for the annual scholarship benefit in her honor.

The fundraiser provides support for student tuition scholarships, and celebrates the memory of McManus, who was a skilled teacher and student supervisor who cared deeply about children, their families, and pre-service teachers.

“I feel very blessed to have known Robin and considered her a friend,” said Martha Lash, interim school director and professor of Curriculum & Instruction/Early Childhood Education. “She was a wonderful early childhood teacher, supervisor, thinker and leader.”

Pam Hutchins (pictured left), coordinator of the CDCs Children's Program, was presented with the 2022 Robin McManus Humanitarian Award, which recognizes the work of a person devoted to the welfare of individuals at the school.

“We have seen Pam put children first throughout the entire pandemic,” said Monica Miller Marsh, CDC director and associate professor, Curriculum & Instruction/Early Childhood Education. “She has worked hard to keep classrooms staffed so that the school can remain open, while constantly monitoring the health of everyone in our community.”

The CDC was bustling with activity: Teachers greeted parents with talks and tours; kids took full advantage of the playground; gift baskets were raffled and food was served.

State representative Casey Weinstein (District 37) made an appearance as a guest of Sara Knapp, a Child Development Center kindergarten teacher.

Proceeds from the benefit will go to the fully endowed Robin McManus Scholarship Fund to children in need of tuition assistance.

Find more information about the Child Development Center.

POSTED: Tuesday, June 7, 2022 01:44 PM
UPDATED: Friday, April 19, 2024 08:42 AM