Sue Hord was selected to receive Lutheran Education Association's 2016 Distinguished Lutheran Early Childhood Administrator award. Ms. Hord is the early childhood director and teacher at Immanuel Preschool in Valparaiso, Ind., where she has served for more than 23 years. Ms. Hord was selected by the LEA Leadership and Early Childhood Networks.
Sue earned both a B.S. and M.S. in education from Valparaiso University, Valparaiso, Ind. In 2003, she was honored for helping found a non-profit child care ministry, Hilltop Neighborhood House. She is active in the Indiana District Early Childhood Cabinet.
In support of Sue's nomination, her pastor said, "Sue is an exemplary church worker in every way. She works tirelessly to ensure that our preschoolers grow in faith and know the story of Jesus. She administers our preschool with firmness and compassion. She expects excellence in those she oversees, and, even more so, of herself. She relates to parents well and she is the best evangelist on our entire staff."
One parent wrote, "Under Susie's leadership, she and her staff have written a comprehensive curriculum that meets the needs of ALL students. As a parent of two children who have gone through the program…, I was very impressed by the teaching philosophy. Mrs. Hord has worked to create Bible lessons that are taught with a series of props that really resonate with young students. Susie has built a program that embraces working together with parents and families as well as connecting them to the church."
A colleague commented, "The fact that Susie relies on her faith to lead her life is apparent. In Susie's interactions with others you can see daily examples of her loving kindness, forgiveness and acts of grace given by God. She has stepped in many times to help those in need whether it be in preschool, K- 8th grade or with church families. Susie's gentleness and caring manner have appealed to many individuals who seek her out when in need of assistance or guidance. She truly leads by example."
Sue describes herself and her mission as "a redeemed child of God, living a life of ongoing sanctification, radical discipleship, and sacrificial service to my family, my church, and my community."