Children's Center will get new name, phone number

It adds just one word to the title, but a whole lot of meaning behind it.

Grand Valley's Children's Center will be called the Children's Enrichment Center on July 1. The name change was approved by Provost Gayle R. Davis to reflect the center's move toward an inclusive, early learning environment for its young students.

Also, Sharalle Arnold was recently named the center’s permanent director, after having served in an interim capacity. Andy Beachnau, director of Housing, Residence Life and Health Services, said Arnold brings experience as a teacher and administrator to the position.

“Sharalle’s vision and energy complements the university’s mission,” he said. “She is committed to creating a safe, supportive learning environment for our youngest children.”

Arnold said the name change reflects the center’s mission and its alignment with the university. The center has built community partnerships, including a collaboration with Ottawa Intermediate School District’s “Great Start” program, and incorporates multiculturalism and character building into lesson plans.

“I look forward to taking our program to the next level, including our candidacy to become reaccredited by the National Association for the Education of Young Children, late next year, and eventually adding on to our building to support the growing needs of young children and families,” Arnold said.

The center will have a new phone number, effective July 1, 331-KIDS. Students, faculty and staff can dial x15437 from other on-campus phones. The center serves children of students, faculty and staff members, alumni and community members.