Former SUMMIT Board President Tom Martin, Ph.D., Professor of Psychology, shared about the history of the center and the need for an inclusive early childhood program where children of all abilities and socio-economic backgrounds could learn and play together. “This was the first building dedicated to childcare, to putting children first. Children learn more from one another and putting children together builds a stronger community.”

Veterinary student Michaela Naugle, one of the very first children to attend SUMMIT Early Learning – Susquehanna, remembered attending as a child with her twin sister, both of whom had been diagnosed with cerebral palsy. Michaela agreed that, “It’s really important for all kids – no matter what – to come together and learn with each other and not be excluded.”

Former SU president, Dr. L. Jay Lemons, spoke about the affection he had and the great memories made in the days when his children attended the programs, “What a great gift it’s been for our university in a variety of ways to have this learning center and laboratory as part of our campus community.”

Current SU president, Jonathan Green, agreed that the center has also benefitted Susquehanna University students “who have the opportunity to see a best-in-class facility.”