Oct. 9, 2002—Jane Davidson, 53, a faculty member in individual and family studies at the University, died Feb. 8, 2002. The following tribute was presented by Alice Eyman, director of the Laboratory Preschool, on Oct. 7 at the General Faculty Meeting.

Jane Ilene Davidson, our friend, mentor, teacher and colleague died of complications from breast cancer on Feb. 8 of this year. Jane was a gifted teacher of young children in the University of Delaware Laboratory Preschool, a mentor and role model for University students and all early childhood educators, an activist and an author. For us, Jane had two passions. The first was her family. Jane would glow with pride when speaking about her children, Lilly and Michael. She was tender in her appreciation for the support her husband, Jeff, constantly gave. Her second passion was her work. Teaching children, helping families, teaching university courses, participating in numerous professional boards, giving workshops and writing books.

It is difficult to capture all the words that adequately describe Jane. Those that come quickly to mind are:

Whimsical–Jane had a playful creative side with children and sometimes with us. Often at our national conferences we would encounter Jane walking on the street or in the halls with her latest puppet “find” draped around her neck or perched on her shoulder. She delighted in the reactions and conversations that resulted when the puppet spoke to a passerby. She also loved the theatre. She and her family supported the University Professional Theatre Training Program by attending many performances here, as well as in Philadelphia and New York City.

Dedicated–Jane shared her great knowledge of children, curriculum and teaching with everyone. She spent many hours making sure every detail was planned and made just right for the children’s learning. The children always came first with her.

Tenacious–Many of you know that Jane was a strong advocate for her beliefs whether it was to ensure early literacy in developmentally appropriate ways or to assure that issues of social justice were addressed, or to advocate for peace education. She used words most persuasively and adamantly. Her advocacy for children with special needs was extraordinary. She thrived on teaching the “challenging” child. She loved teaching the ever independent and fractious 4-year-olds. She made us all search for better ways to do our jobs.

Compassionate–Children and families immediately sensed that Jane cared about them and looked to support them and find solutions to their particular concerns. She was generous in giving her time and willingness to help.

We have lost one of our strongest champions and advocates for young children and families. We have all reached higher standards as teachers, as a Lab School and as a University because of Jane’s model and her ability to challenge us.

Jane has been woven into the fabric of the family of the Laboratory Preschool and the University of Delaware for 24 years. She will always remain as part of that tapestry.