Meet Judy, the founder of Smoky Row Children’s Center.
Judy’s professional life began in 1960 (yes, before you were born!). She earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Education from the University of Omaha and a Master’s Degree in Child Development at Ohio State University. She taught in the Omaha public schools before joining the HEADSTART program, which included teaching Child Development at Columbus State Community College. Then she realized and fulfilled her goal of creating a high-quality early childhood center when she founded Smoky Row Children’s Center in 1983. Judy says, “The favorite part of my day at SRCC is getting out of the office and spending time in the classrooms. As I walk around seeing children happily involved in developmentally appropriate activities, I feel proud of our teachers and the work they are doing and the wonderful service we offer. I deeply appreciate their passion and dedication to the mission of the center.” She and husband Bob, who is a retired OB-GYN, love to travel. They also delight in spending time with family, especially their three grandchildren. Being a Grandparent is the dessert of life! Judy retired in 2018 and her daughter, Lora, is the current director of the center.