 | Throughout March, we celebrate Women’s History Month, honoring the remarkable contributions of women who have shaped the Toledo Region. All month we’re spotlighting inspiring women who lead, innovate, and make a difference. Join us as we share their stories, insights, and advice. This week, we highlight Lois Rosenberry of Children's Discover Center. |
Tell us about your career path that led you to where you are today.
I have a bachelor's degree in behavioral science and a master's degree in home economics education, which included several courses in family studies and child development. After moving to Toledo, I was invited to start a church's nursery school and child-care center. Since I had two children under five, I eagerly accepted the challenge so I could have them with me while I worked. Three years later, with the support of several of those parents, I started Children’s Discovery Center in Arrowhead Park.
Recognizing the importance of investing in myself to overcome weaknesses and enhance my strengths, I enrolled in UT’s adult education class, “Successful Strategies for the Small Business Owner.” This taught me to effectively utilize an advisory board comprised of a banker, accountant, marketing expert, industry consultant, and insurance specialist. They often steered me away from making bad decisions and prodded me on when it was time to grow.
Over the years, I opened 11 centers in Ohio and South Carolina. Today, we operate six centers in the greater Toledo area, continuing our mission of providing high-quality early care and education.
What were some of the barriers or obstacles you've faced & how did you overcome them?
My biggest barrier was obtaining financing. Given that I didn’t have personal liquidity or other financial resources, many banks turned me down for start-up funds. However, my parents and a Penta teacher stepped forward to provide my capital needs. As we grew, I was able to leverage my properties for additional cash as well as obtain SBA financing to support expansion.
Who inspired you to become a leader and why?
My mother was recognized as the best teacher in our county and always encouraged me to do my best. With more childcare centers opening in our area, I knew that to do my best and succeed, I needed to differentiate Children’s Discovery Center from our competitors. I visited science and children’s museums across the country and participated in a world study tour of the renowned Italian Reggio Emilia early education centers. Through these experiences, I developed an exemplary hands-on model that has served us well for the past 42 years. We have published Inspiring Spaces for Young Children, which resulted in a consulting contract with the U.S. Air Force to improve their childcare environments based on our seven principles of design. Although my mother passed several years ago, I know that she would be pleased that I followed her example and have done my best.
What advice do you have for women looking to grow either their own business or within the company they work for?
For women looking to grow their own business, success starts with a strong foundation. Begin with thorough market research to understand the demand and competition. A well-thought-out business plan will keep you focused, while choosing the right legal structure ensures long-term stability. Securing adequate funding is key—whether through loans, grants, or investors, make sure you have the resources to sustain and scale. A strong marketing strategy will help you reach the right audience, but customer service is what will keep them coming back. Growth also requires adaptability—regularly assess your performance and be willing to adjust. Most importantly, stay organized, embrace the challenges, and be prepared to put in the time and effort it takes to succeed. The journey won’t always be easy, but with determination and the right strategy, it will be worth it.
What specific strategies or resources do you believe would help women develop or enhance their leadership skills?
Investing in personal and professional development is key. Taking business courses, participating in leadership programs, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals can make a significant impact. Additionally, joining networking organizations and business associations such as The Toledo Chamber of Commerce can provide valuable connections and insights that support leadership growth.
I have a bachelor's degree in behavioral science and a master's degree in home economics education, which included several courses in family studies and child development. After moving to Toledo, I was invited to start a church's nursery school and child-care center. Since I had two children under five, I eagerly accepted the challenge so I could have them with me while I worked. Three years later, with the support of several of those parents, I started Children’s Discovery Center in Arrowhead Park.
Recognizing the importance of investing in myself to overcome weaknesses and enhance my strengths, I enrolled in UT’s adult education class, “Successful Strategies for the Small Business Owner.” This taught me to effectively utilize an advisory board comprised of a banker, accountant, marketing expert, industry consultant, and insurance specialist. They often steered me away from making bad decisions and prodded me on when it was time to grow.
Over the years, I opened 11 centers in Ohio and South Carolina. Today, we operate six centers in the greater Toledo area, continuing our mission of providing high-quality early care and education.
What were some of the barriers or obstacles you've faced & how did you overcome them?
My biggest barrier was obtaining financing. Given that I didn’t have personal liquidity or other financial resources, many banks turned me down for start-up funds. However, my parents and a Penta teacher stepped forward to provide my capital needs. As we grew, I was able to leverage my properties for additional cash as well as obtain SBA financing to support expansion.
Who inspired you to become a leader and why?
My mother was recognized as the best teacher in our county and always encouraged me to do my best. With more childcare centers opening in our area, I knew that to do my best and succeed, I needed to differentiate Children’s Discovery Center from our competitors. I visited science and children’s museums across the country and participated in a world study tour of the renowned Italian Reggio Emilia early education centers. Through these experiences, I developed an exemplary hands-on model that has served us well for the past 42 years. We have published Inspiring Spaces for Young Children, which resulted in a consulting contract with the U.S. Air Force to improve their childcare environments based on our seven principles of design. Although my mother passed several years ago, I know that she would be pleased that I followed her example and have done my best.
What advice do you have for women looking to grow either their own business or within the company they work for?
For women looking to grow their own business, success starts with a strong foundation. Begin with thorough market research to understand the demand and competition. A well-thought-out business plan will keep you focused, while choosing the right legal structure ensures long-term stability. Securing adequate funding is key—whether through loans, grants, or investors, make sure you have the resources to sustain and scale. A strong marketing strategy will help you reach the right audience, but customer service is what will keep them coming back. Growth also requires adaptability—regularly assess your performance and be willing to adjust. Most importantly, stay organized, embrace the challenges, and be prepared to put in the time and effort it takes to succeed. The journey won’t always be easy, but with determination and the right strategy, it will be worth it.
What specific strategies or resources do you believe would help women develop or enhance their leadership skills?
Investing in personal and professional development is key. Taking business courses, participating in leadership programs, and seeking mentorship from experienced professionals can make a significant impact. Additionally, joining networking organizations and business associations such as The Toledo Chamber of Commerce can provide valuable connections and insights that support leadership growth.
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