Morris County, New Jersey, recently marked a significant milestone in early childhood development with the dedication of the Susan O’Donnell Head Start Headquarters in Dover. This momentous occasion honored the remarkable legacy of Susan O’Donnell, whose decade of visionary leadership profoundly transformed early childhood education across the county. The ribbon-cutting ceremony not only celebrated a newly renovated and expanded facility but also commemorated 60 years of Head Start’s impactful presence, a federal initiative Morris County proudly joined at its inception in 1965.
Located at 18 Thompson Avenue, the original Head Start site in Morris County has undergone a spectacular transformation. The extensive renovations now boast four brand-new classrooms and significant upgrades, creating an optimal learning environment for the community’s youngest learners. This revitalization underscores a deep commitment to providing top-tier early childhood programs for local families.
Commissioner Christine Myers, speaking on behalf of the Board of County Commissioners, highlighted O’Donnell’s extraordinary contributions. “Today, we’re not just celebrating a beautifully renovated building; we’re honoring a legacy,” stated Commissioner Myers. “Susan didn’t just grow Head Start in Morris County — she elevated it. With people like her, there are no limits to what we deliver, not just for our children, but for future generations.”
During her impressive ten-year tenure, which concluded with her retirement in January 2025, Susan O’Donnell spearheaded a period of unprecedented growth for Head Start in Morris County. Under her guidance, enrollment doubled, and critical facility expansions were executed in both Dover and Morris Plains. This included the opening of the Robert C. Grant Center in 2020 at 1 Medical Drive in Morris County Central Park.
Perhaps one of O’Donnell’s most significant achievements is that both the Dover and Morris Plains Head Start locations recently achieved five-star ratings from Grow NJ Kids. This prestigious distinction, New Jersey’s quality rating and improvement system for early childhood programs, sets these facilities apart as the only Head Start locations in the entire state to reach such a high standard of excellence. This remarkable accomplishment speaks volumes about the dedication to quality and the nurturing environments fostered under O’Donnell’s leadership.
Susan O’Donnell’s dedication extends beyond her executive role. She has been a tireless advocate and volunteer for years, contributing her expertise to numerous community boards and committees. Since 2008, she has been an active member of the Morris County Youth Services Advisory Committee (YSAC), helping to shape countywide policies and funding for at-risk youth, demonstrating her holistic approach to supporting children and families.
Addressing the attendees at the ceremony, O’Donnell expressed her gratitude: “The work of this organization begins and ends here for the past 60 years. Our team is made up of absolute superstars. Every one of you has contributed to the success of Head Start. I’m so grateful and blessed to have had this opportunity for ten years — working with people I have grown to love, along with a Board of Directors that has been so supportive of the program.”
The event also drew praise and honors for O’Donnell from prominent figures, including State Assemblywoman Aura Dunn, Dover Mayor James Dodd, and representatives from the offices of Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill and U.S. Senator Andy Kim, all recognizing her profound impact on the children and families of Morris County. Notable attendees included County Administrator Deena Leary, Assistant Administrator Brian Murray, and Human Services Director Kasey Errico. The program was expertly emceed by Bob Grant, the longtime president of the Head Start Board of Trustees and the namesake of the Morris Plains facility.
Grant eloquently summarized O’Donnell’s transformative influence: “Ten years ago, Head Start was going through a challenging period, and we knew we needed someone with the right vision to move us forward. Susan elevated every aspect of this organization. From curriculum to community engagement, her focus was always on doing what was best for the children. We wouldn’t be where we are today without her.”
Looking to the future, the celebration also served to introduce Juan Fernandez as the new executive director. Fernandez, who played a crucial role as facilities manager during the Dover renovations, received a warm welcome and presented O’Donnell with a heartfelt card signed by children in the program, pledging to continue building upon her impressive legacy.
The Head Start Community Program of Morris County, founded in 1965, remains steadfast in its vital mission: to partner with families, offering comprehensive support for child development and school readiness from prenatal stages through kindergarten, particularly for the community’s most vulnerable children. Currently, the organization empowers 316 families through free programs tailored for expectant mothers, infants, toddlers, and preschoolers across various sites in Morris County. Crucially, Head Start services are meticulously designed to be responsive to each child and family’s unique ethnic, cultural, and linguistic heritage, ensuring inclusive and effective support.
For those interested in learning more about the invaluable services offered by Head Start in Morris County, details are available by calling 973-989-5640 or by exploring their website at headstartmc.org. Discover more about essential services and community programs in the region by visiting our dedicated section for North Jersey at https://explorenewjersey.org/category/north-jersey/.
