Reach retires from CDC

Nancy Reach, left, passes the torch as CDC Director to Lindsey Bullman. ANDREW TURNER/DAILY REGISTER

New horizons are in store for one Southeastern Illinois College employee and the future couldn't look any brighter.

Nancy Reach, Director for the Child Development Center celebrated her retirement Thursday with the staff of the Center. Reach has been the director there for 15 years and has loved every minute of it.

"This has been a wonderful place to work," said Reach. "I have enjoyed my SIC family."

Reach became the Director for the Center in 2000 and began a career that would not only change the children but the thousands of families that utilize the center. Under Reach's leadership the center has blossomed achieving National Association for the Education of Children accreditation in 2004.

"This was the highest honor our center could achieve, we all worked very hard and felt very proud," Reach said.

Reach has left a lasting impression on those she worked with as well. Ellen Prince, who has been with the Center since 1995, has felt nothing but love since Reach came on the scene.

"She has such a big heart and brought us all together as a family," said Prince. "She would do anything for anyone."

Though Reach has left an impression and staff say, her leaving is a sad occasion, she isn't leaving the Center in unqualified hands.

Lindsey Bullman accepted the position two weeks ago and has plans to continue in those amazing footsteps that Reach has left behind.

"I am excited to continue with all that is involved with the accreditation," said Bullman. "I want to maintain the great quality the Center already offers."

Bullman, who lives in Benton left a 6 1/2 year position with Night's Shield to be a part of the Child Development Center's great legacy. Bullman said she has always had an interest in early childhood education and sprang into action when she learned of the position.

Though Reach will be missed, her legacy will live on as the Child Development Center continues to give great quality gold star care for the children.