FORT WORTH, Texas – Childrens Lighthouse Learning Centers℠, widely recognized as the leading values-based, early learning schools in the United States, announced today the appointment of Stephanie Russ as Vice President and General Counsel. Russ will represent Childrens Lighthouse in legal matters and help develop processes designed to add value to franchisees and the company.
An accomplished attorney, Russ has practiced franchise law for 13 years and has represented and guided Childrens Lighthouse as the brand’s legal counsel at law firm Mullin, Russ, Kilejian PC and most recently with Baker McKenzie. Prior to attending law school, Russ worked with large, established franchise companies for 15 years, during which she held positions in operations, training, and human resources, both in the field and at corporate headquarters.
“Stephanie is the perfect addition to the Childrens Lighthouse team,” said Michael Brown, President of Childrens Lighthouse Learning Centers℠. “She has already proven her ability to represent the brand by guiding our legal matters. Now, she will also coordinate and oversee various departments through the implementation of strategic initiatives. Her deep experience with our brand, franchisee support and the industry at-large equip her nicely for her new role at Childrens Lighthouse.”
Russ’ appointment comes during an exciting time for the early learning school franchise. The fast-growing brand has 30 schools in development and has added several members to its corporate team this year, including key roles in marketing, operations and curriculum development.
“Having represented Childrens Lighthouse in the past, I am extremely excited to be joining such an accomplished team,” said Russ. “I look forward to continuing to better the franchisee experience as we grow throughout the U.S.”
Childrens Lighthouse, which was founded in 1995, has early learning schools across the United States, including Alabama, California, Florida, Illinois, Kansas, North Carolina and Texas. Childrens Lighthouse anticipates adding several dozen locations to the pipeline through the end of 2019.
The mission of Childrens Lighthouse is to connect families together with independent owners in an effort to enrich communities through a relationship based on safety and trust. Childrens Lighthouse does this by partnering with parents to develop children with character values and physical wellness in a S.T.R.E.A.M.℠ enriched learning environment. Additionally, franchisees across the network are actively involved with their local communities and regularly give back through volunteering, donations and more.
Launched 24 years ago, Childrens Lighthouse provides entrepreneurs with the opportunity to open in attractive metropolitan areas. Ownership in a Childrens Lighthouse franchise includes a full suite of support services, including site selection, financing guidance, construction administration and grand opening marketing best practices. Childrens Lighthouse’s initial and ongoing training and support is led by an experienced team of early education veterans, providing the franchise owner invaluable insight and leadership for the entire life of the franchise.
ABOUT CHILDREN’S LIGHTHOUSE
Established in Ft. Worth, Texas in 1995, Childrens Lighthouse Learning Centers℠ are among the leaders in providing value-based early education. Currently, Childrens Lighthouse has 50 schools in operation and 30 additional franchise locations in the development pipeline. Childrens Lighthouse has been named a “Best Places to Work” by the Dallas and San Antonio Business Journals and has received the “Franchise 500” designation by Entrepreneur magazine due to its stability, financial strength and growth.