Mary Janssen: Cedar Valley Ovation Honoree

posted on Friday, June 1, 2018

Congratulations are in order for our Children and Family Services Director, Mary Janssen! She has received an Ovation award as one of the Iowa Women's Foundation Tributes. 

Mary holds a BA in Elementary Education from Upper Iowa University and a Master's in Early Childhood Leadership, Management, and Administration from Walden University. Mary is truly a remarkable woman who is constantly advocating for children and child care for Iowa. Her leadership style is open and positive, stressing communication and teamwork that's reflected in her team.

Mary served as the director of the Valley Park Site of the Community United Child Care Centers for four years before coming to the Child Care Resource and Referral program (CCR&R) at EPI as a Child Care Quality Rating System Specialist in 2006. In 2011, she became the Child Care Consultant Supervisor, and in 2012 became the Children and Family Services Director. 

She oversees a total of 16 contracts for CCR&R, EPI. Included are seven Early Childhood Iowa contracts (19 counties) and the Child and Adult Care Food Program. Mary is a true partner in serving on committees at the local, regional, and state level. She and her staff organize an annual tour of early childhood programs followed by a discussion over lunch. This event has created the foundation for a trusting, effective partnership with local and state decision makers. 

She is a role model for our entire team!