A perfect spring day greeted approximately 100 members of the community and American National University family who attended the grand opening ceremony for the $$Stark County Campus in Jackson Township, Ohio. After a smart presentation of the colors by the Army National Guard and stirring rendition of the national anthem by 16-year-old singing phenom Hannah Bea Fricker, Campus Director Jill Morrow welcomed the guests and expressed the gratitude of the College for the warm welcome it had received in the community.
Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce President Steven Meeks took the podium to introduce the guest speaker, Stark County Commissioner Janet Weir Creighton. A distinguished public servant, Commissioner Weir has previously served as the Mayor of Canton, and was director of intergovernmental affairs for President George W. Bush.
“I commend you, your staff, and your students for taking this important step, a step that is required in navigating through change…the word ‘change’ has a broad meaning, but I talk about embracing change,” said Commissioner Creighton. “I am talking about progress, it’s about moving forward to become better people, better workplaces, better schools, to provide better services, to make better products, and to advance science and technology.”
She also remarked on the college’s mission statement, and how it espouses preparation of our graduates for a “full life” that includes not only professional achievement and prosperity, but also embraces support for family and community.
The campus also presented a donation to the Family Readiness Group for B Company, 638th Support Battalion, a local National Guard unit. Family Readiness Groups are vital organizations that assist military families in coping with the demands placed on our service members and their loved ones.
After the ceremonial ribbon cutting, guests were invited to tour the campus and enjoy a catered lunch.
Pictured holding the ribbon is Administrative Assistant Suzanne Marcoguiseppe, Regional Director of Operations Tim Philibin, Stark County Commissioner Janet Weir Creighton, Jackson-Belden Chamber of Commerce President Steven Meeks, and Campus Director Jill Morrow. Campus Director Jill Morrow is pictured on the right with Administrative Assistant Suzanne Marcoguiseppe presenting a check to Robin Fraedrich of the B Co., 638th Support Bn FRG (left).
