When I arrived at Jefferson the parking lot was filled to capacity. Because it was close to six p.m. I assumed there was a sporting event going on. As soon as I arrived at the school, I noticed the cafeteria was full with Scouts and other students wearing baseball uniforms. The children were nibbling on hot dogs and chips.

“You must be Dr. Mullen,” I heard behind my back. “I’m Melanie Schroeder.”

I turned around to greet Melanie who was wearing a Cubs outfit. My Parents Night coordinator helped me with my things and showed me where I was to speak. I was to speak on a sunken stage with descending, green-carpeted stairsteps where students were to sit for my presentation.

As I was preparing for the speech, Melanie informed me: “We have over a 145 confirmed reservations, another 35 more confirmations, and just today over 20 more. In all, 200 parents/students have signed up to hear your speech tonight. This is the most we’ve ever had for one of these events.“

I then quickly deduced that the filled parking lot of cars, filled cafeteria of hot-dog loving students and parents had come specifically to hear me speak. I usually don’t get nervous, but I felt a quick surge of apprehension rising on the back of my neck. The reason why is because this was the first time I’d be speaking in front of such a large group of parents. I’d get a feel tonight on how my speech would be received by the parents at Jefferson.

The room quickly filled; the lights flashed on and off and suddenly all eyes were on the presenter. All went well including the “Art of the Scream” which received a joyous applause from the parents. But what touched me most was when I revealed my daughter, Erin’s, Team USA uniform to the audience. The crowd erupted in applause. It was then I knew my daughter and I’s story touched them in a positive way. The Iowa Cubs offered tickets to the Cubs game and I was asked to pick from the hat for the two lucky winners.

After the presentation, Melanie asked if I had time to sign a few more books at the parents’ request. Of course, I agreed.

After bringing a bagful of books back with me to the stage I was overwhelmed with warmth. Parents and children waited patiently in a line that snaked outside the auditorium door. I felt as if I had arrived.

One father who had two daughters in softball took pictures of me with his athletic girls and said proudly, “I hope my two girls can bring home a championship ring for me like Erin did for you.”

Another parent said, “I am having my daughter look Erin’s name up on the Internet so she can be inspired by all of Erin’s accomplishments.”

Several parents thanked me for sacrificing my time away from my family and farm to help inspire Iowa’s children to dream big. Over and over I heard compliments about my speech and how my message was right on track and what children today need to hear.

Thank you Jefferson. You have inspired me with your warmth and I now know that Iowa’s parents do believe that every child – including their children and even possibly they themselves – dream of greatness.