On Wednesday, October 2, 2024, U.S. Rep. Tom Kean Jr. (R-Westfield) paid tribute to Oak Knoll School of the Holy Child in honor of the school’s 100th Anniversary by visiting the campus, meeting with student leaders, and presenting a special Congressional Resolution that had been read on the floor of the U.S. House of Representatives and entered into the Congressional Record.
“For over 100 years, you’ve fostered a welcoming and diverse student body of inquisitive students who think critically, embrace knowledge, respond with moral and ethical integrity, make responsible choices that enrich their own lives, and contribute to the lives of others,” Kean declared as he read from the resolution. “Oak Knoll School has stood as a testament to a century of educational innovation, resilience, and dedication. May the school’s next 100 years be filled with as much success as the past 100 years. Congratulations; it’s an honor to be with you.”
Oak Knoll Head of School Jennifer G. Landis thanked the congressman for visiting the school’s Summit campus to recognize the centennial as an important milestone in its history.
“We extend our deepest gratitude to Congressman Kean for honoring us today in celebration of our centennial,” said Landis. “We are proud of our rich history of excellence and we are inspired to continue this legacy as we continue shaping the leaders of tomorrow.”
Following his presentation of the resolution, Kean was introduced to members of the Upper School Core Council and the Lower School Student Leadership Team. The students asked a variety of thoughtful questions about his reasons for entering public service, the most rewarding aspect of his job, and lessons learned along his career path.
Kean encouraged the students to hone their listening skills, pay attention to the needs of those around them in their community, and adopt a firm handshake and earnest eye contact — great advice for the young leaders in attendance and all our budding global leaders.
Visitors can find Kean’s Congressional Resolution on our 100th Anniversary webpage where it will join congratulatory wishes from Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, Archbishop of Newark, and New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy.
- All School News