After 14 years with Nebraska Children and Families Foundation and First Five Nebraska, I leave this incredible workplace to pursue the next chapter of life. It’s bittersweet to leave behind work you enjoy, but I have extreme confidence in the next generation of early childhood policy leaders who will carry on.
I came into this work following a multitude of trailblazers before me—people who dedicated their passions and livelihood to this field. That’s not surprising as anyone knows and appreciates the influence the early years have on a child’s course in life. Once you comprehend that, it’s difficult not to be involved.
Nebraska is fortunate to have a relatively small population—those in the early childhood arena know one another and have long-standing relationships. Other states aren’t as fortunate. I’ve been privileged to work with an array of talented individuals, both at the national, state and local levels—some of them icons in this profession. They have served as mentors to me, sometimes guiding me but mostly walking along side me. I will be forever grateful to them for their wisdom, patience and foresight.
For those trailblazers who follow me, don’t forget the possibilities of what you can do. Think big, think differently, be a visionary—it will serve you well. My extreme gratitude to all.
