The executive director of the center, Kristi Hirsch, was born and raised in Eads, CO.  In 1991 she graduated from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, MN with a degree in Elementary Education.  She and her husband, Phil, have been blessed with seven children, ranging in age from 8 to 16.  She has enjoyed being able to stay home with her children and now looks forward to serving you!

Jessica Upton is the program director and lead preschool teacher.  She graduated in May 2005 from Martin Luther College with her B.A. degree in Early Childhood and Elementary Education.  Originally from Washington, Jessica moved to Manhattan in July of 2005.  It has been so exciting for her to spend the past three plus years serving the families of Hope and shining the light of Christ's love with you and your children!

Connie Brandt is the assistant director at Hope Lutheran Early Learning Center and a teacher in the Preschool 1 classroom.  In May of 2008 she graduated from Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota with her degree in Elementary Education.  Connie’s originally from Wisconsin and moved to Manhattan in July of 2008.  
Connie really loves the children and being able to help them grow.  She especially like sharing Christ’s love with the children throughout the center on a daily basis.