Administrative Offices

Administration

Scott L. Petersen

President
Co-founded TKP in 1982

Ruth Guzman    Ruth Guzman

Regional Director

Ruth has been working in the Early childhood field for over 30 years. She is a graduate of both Springfield College and American International College. She has a bachelor’s degree in Human Services and a Masters degree in Early Childhood. She started her career working at Head start and also worked for the Springfield public schools before coming to The Kids’ Place in 2009. She started as the director of the Spfld center and transitioned into the Field Director position and for the past 10 years has been the Regional Director of the programs. Ruth has two adult children and is a grandmother to a 15 year old granddaughter and a 10 year old grandson. Dedicating her life to young children has always been her dream. She enjoys cooking, baking and Salsa music.

                                       Dawn M. Petersen, J.D.

       Director of Human Resources

Dawn is a dedicated professional with a distinguished career in both military and federal service.  She earned           her Bachelor’s degree from George Mason University and went on to receive her Juris Doctorate from Western New England University.  Dawn served with honor and distinction in the United States Judge Advocate General’s Corps.  After her military service, she continued her commitment to public service by joining the Department of the Interior, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.  There she served as an Employee and Labor Relations Specialist and Human Resources Director.  She played a vital role in upholding the mission of the Service, and ultimately retiring after 30 years of service from the federal government after an accomplished and impactful career.  Now, she brings her wealth of experience and leadership to The Kids’ Place as Director of Human Resources, where she supports the organization’s mission to serve children and families with excellence and compassion.  Outside of her professional achievements, she cherishes spending time with her husband and family.  A passionate traveler, she enjoys exploring new places and creating lasting memories with her family.

 

Administrative Support

Maria Medina

Billing Specialist

Carolyn Paulin

Accounting Clerk

Maintenance

Daniel Petersen

Facility Manager