KING OF PRUSSIA, PA — The International Franchise Association (IFA) has named Denise Cross, owner of The Goddard School of Reno (Somersett), NV, as a 2023 Franchisee of the Year, an accolade that celebrates exceptional performance and contributions to the franchise business model.
Cross was nominated by Goddard Systems, the manager of The Goddard School franchise system, and was honored at the 64th IFA Annual Convention. The award recognizes significant achievements among franchise owners from IFA member brands who have shown outstanding performance and made valuable contributions to their communities and their workforce while embodying the entrepreneurial spirit.
After a 25-year career in the corporate world, Cross ventured into the franchise business and opened The Goddard School of Reno in 2010. She expressed her gratitude for the recognition and reflected on her journey as a franchise owner.
“I am truly honored to have been nominated by Goddard Systems and recognized by the IFA as a Franchisee of the Year,” said Cross. “Goddard proved to be the perfect fit, combining a profitable business opportunity with the ability to serve my community. From day one, I wanted to create a school where teachers would have rewarding careers and children would receive an exceptional education.”
The Goddard School of Reno, one of over 630 locations in The Goddard School franchise system, is a leading provider of premium early childhood education. Under Cross’ leadership, the school has consistently delivered notable results across various categories, including business and operational performance, health and safety, education, teacher retention, and parent satisfaction. The school also boasts accreditation by the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC), a prestigious recognition in early childhood education.
In addition to her role as a franchise owner, Cross contributes to the broader Goddard School system as a member of the inaugural class of the Goddard Systems Advisory Council. Her insights have helped shape the organization’s direction, including the evolution of Goddard’s educational approach.
Dennis R. Maple, chairman and CEO of Goddard Systems and IFA board member, commended Cross for her dedication and success. “The sustained success of the Goddard system for more than 35 years is a testament to our passionate and dedicated franchisees, and there is no better representative of what makes our system special than Denise,” he said.
The accolades don’t stop there for Cross. The Goddard School of Reno (Somersett) was also recognized as a member of the 2023 Goddard School Circle of Excellence, an honor that celebrates top-performing Goddard Schools nationwide. The award recognizes schools that uphold the Goddard brand, reputation, and business performance through outstanding achievements in education and operational delivery.
Cross’ recognition as Franchisee of the Year and her school’s inclusion in the Circle of Excellence underscore the significant impact of dedicated franchise owners on the success and growth of franchise systems. As the franchise industry continues to evolve, entrepreneurs like Cross are leading the way, demonstrating how passion and dedication can translate into a successful business venture that serves the community.
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