Kathy Gilbert

Kathy Gilbert brings many strengths to her position as Coordinator of WMU Children's Place. She has been with the center since it opened in 1996, and her experience and educational background have helped shape the philosophy and organization of the center. Kathy graduated from Indiana University with a bachelor's degree in Elementary Education and masters degrees in Educational Technology and Early Childhood Education from Western Michigan University. Kathy has worked in the childcare profession for over 25 years.

Kathy says this about her role at the Children's Place, “The most important skill I can impart to children is a sense of competence. By allowing children to be an active part of the curriculum, children gain a comfort with their abilities. I work hard to provide a safe, non-judgmental atmosphere where children can experiment with new ideas and skills without the fear of failure. I encourage each child to stretch him or herself and develop new ways of thinking and new skills. The competence they gain here will help them succeed in school in the years to come.”

Kristin Harte

Kristin Harte is a graduate of Western Kristin Harte is a graduate of Western Michigan University who is delighted to be in the Assistant Director Position and Head Preschool Teacher at WMU Children’s Place Learning Center. Kristin graduated from WMU with a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood endorsement and minors in Language Arts and Social Studies. Kristin also completed her Early Childhood internship at the Children’s place in the toddler room. It was during her internship that she realized that learning requires taking risks and it is up to the teacher to minimize that feeling of risk, making the learning culture fun, comfortable and open. Prior to joining the staff at the Children’s Place, Kristin was the Head Preschool Teacher at Child Development Center at Borgess.

Kristin believes it is important for children to have a stimulating environment to maximize their learning. All children are unique; therefore she encourages their individuality and creativity. Kristin believes in having a variety of hands on learning centers for the children to initiate activities they would like to explore. She believes working as a team with family and staff aid the children’s development.

Jenny Fusciardi

Jenny Fusciardi graduated from Western Michigan University with her Bachelor of Science Degree in Elementary Education with an Early Childhood Endorsement as well as minors in Math, Science and English. She worked in the preschool room as an assistant teacher from 2007-2008 and is thrilled to be back with a new position in the toddler room. In her absence from the Children’s Place, Jenny taught preschool and Kindergarten for Forest Area Community Schools. She and her family missed Kalamazoo, and they are excited to be back in the area.

Jenny wholeheartedly believes that learning should be child-centered and that kids should have as many choices as possible in their learning environment. Every child should feel safe, loved, and cared for in the classroom as well as encouraged to develop at their own pace. She looks forward to partnering with staff and parents to foster the growth and development of each child.

Janice Quakenbush

Janice Quakenbush is the Off-site Administrator for WMU Children's Place Learning Center which is a department in the Division of Student Affairs. Janice's office is located in the Faunce Student Services Building in the Vice President for Student Affairs area. Janice's responsibilities at the Center include serving as the child care center license designee and providing administrative oversight for the center. Her role at WMU is as the Director of Business Operations. Janice has worked at WMU since 1997 and brings extensive business operational and budgeting experience to the Center. She graduated from WMU with a master of business administration degree in Healthcare Administration. Janice is devoted to ensuring the safety, quality and stability of the center and it's staff for the families served.

Janice is always available to talk or meet with parents to discuss the Center and can be reached via email at janice.quakenbush@wmich.edu or phone at 387-2163.