Farewell

It is bittersweet to be coming to my time here at Walden, it feels as if I just began the program yesterday but as I reflect I realize how long of a road it was and how much I know have gained. As I end this program I realize I am not the same professional as I was when I started. When I started here I was nervous about what I thought I would gain, I felt I already knew a lot because I was in a director role. As the program continued I realized how little I actually knew. I feel my thought process has changed to incorporate many components as I make decisions for my center to incorporate thinking about financials, families, children, staff and community.   I feel it was important for me to learn more about budget and financials to understand better the effect of labor vs enrollment and the importance of being able to stay within my targeted budget. It was also very eye opening for me to be able to develop my own budget for a center to learn how difficult and intensive it is. I feel the biggest benefit in the program was the cohort. Over the last twenty-two months I have grown alongside many colleagues in the program and I am very thankful to have them with me through giving me feedback and encouragement. One long term goal I have for myself is to continue learning and think that I know everything I need to know.

I am going to miss everyone I have worked with throughout this program especially my professors who have pushed me to be the professional I am today. Thank you!