About the Author

Francene Mary Diane Hill grew up surrounded by the energy and purpose of the Tiny Tot Nursery School, founded by her mother, Kermit Hill, in 1951 before she was born. Over the decades, Francene worked in every role at Tiny Tot—from teacher’s assistant to bus driver—before serving as Board Member and Assistant Director. She holds a B.A. in Psychology from Smith College and an M.S. in Human and Family Studies from Penn State University.

Her passion for storytelling has taken her to open mics, book readings, and book festivals, including The Moth StorySLAM in Washington, DC. She has been featured in Sisters of AARP Magazine, the St. Louis Public Library’s Digital Collection, and on multiple stages sharing her mother’s inspiring legacy. Tiny Tots in Tiaras and Tuxedos is her tribute to Kermit’s groundbreaking achievements and lasting community impact.

This creative biography offers valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, historians, and academics, in addition to Tiny Tot alumni and parents.