Embedded Files
Early Childhood Policy & Advocacy | Project & Program Management | Coalition Building | Policy Leadership | Grants Management | Communications & Content Strategy | Legislative Advocacy
Professional Summary
Professional Summary
Strategic early childhood policy leader with deep expertise in early care and learning systems, program management, and coalition building. Proven track record executing high-impact policy convenings, managing complex projects, and translating research into actionable recommendations for policymakers. Skilled at directing policy initiatives, building cross-sector coalitions, and advancing educational equity.
Professional Experience
Professional Experience
The Hunt Institute
The Hunt Institute
Cary, NC | April 2024 – July 2026
Director of Early Learning
Developed and executed national and state early childhood policy convenings, orchestrating project timelines, identifying expert speakers, and cultivating coalitions with policy leaders across all 50 states and the District of Columbia
Designed and facilitated high-level policy discussions with senior elected officials and early childhood system leaders, moderating complex conversations and building consensus among diverse perspectives
Directed early learning policy team, shaping program priorities, coordinating state-level technical assistance strategy, and overseeing policy inquiry responses
Formulated evidence-based responses to policy inquiries from legislators and advocacy partners, synthesizing research findings and presenting strategic recommendations to executive-level stakeholders
Collaborated with content and program directors across the organization to advance The Hunt Institute's mission of educational equity and policy innovation
Communications Consultant
Communications Consultant
Durham, NC | 2021 – 2024
Independent Contractor
Launched Appleseed Content Services (now Appleseed Consulting Services) as a communications consultancy serving nonprofit and mission-driven organizations
Managed all business operations including client relations, contracting, and financial management
Conducted communications assessments and developed strategic communication plans at programmatic and organizational levels for mission-driven clients
Produced diverse content including annual reports, position papers, blog posts, social media campaigns, and press releases
Provided project management support for client website development strategy
Early Years
Early Years
Durham, NC | 2008 – 2021
Senior Manager for Family Support – Child Care Scholarship | 2011 – 2021
Directed a child care subsidy program, braiding state, county, local, and private funding to support low-income families' access to high-quality care
Analyzed monthly caseload and spending data to ensure program goals, objectives, and budget targets were consistently met
Developed visual and written program materials for parent and provider orientation, staff training, and dissemination of best practices
Forged strategic partnerships with community organizations supporting child well-being and early childhood education
Grants and Special Projects Manager | 2008 – 2011
Managed and developed tracking systems for grant writing, administration, reporting, and audit responsibilities for county, federal, corporate, and private grants
Oversaw AmeriCorps T.E.A.C.H. Early Childhood® program coordinator and managed AmeriCorps member placement in local child care centers
Education
Education
Master of Social Work
Organizations and Communities Concentration
University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
Bachelor of Arts, English
Writing Concentration
Columbia College, Columbia, SC
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