It was a tribute to Jean's personality. She had the ability to seem so safe--so comfortable--that people were naturally drawn to her. And she was safe.
"That's why I came to the school in the first place. I couldn't control my powers. Apparently I went into a coma, and only the Professor could bring me out." There was something a little... off... about how she said the Professor's name. There was more than respect and admiration there.