Welcome New Exchange Leaders!

08/08/2023

Welcome New Exchange Leaders!

To handle yourself, use your head; to handle others, use your heart.
Eleanor Roosevelt, 1884-1962, Diplomat, First Lady, Activist

The Exchange Leadership Initiative is delighted to welcome the 2023 Exchange Leaders! Pam Boulton writes, “We see them everywhere—as directors, owners, and administrators, in classrooms, family child care homes, schools, colleges, and universities and in all the programs and services that support children and families.”

Jennifer Chen, Professor: “To me, both teaching and learning are fundamental and integral to leadership which, in turn, is an evolving process that requires continuous learning and a strong commitment to engaging in reflective practice. As I strive to lead with wisdom through self-reflection and by example anchored in respect and positivity, I hope to inspire others to join forces in advancing the field of early care and education.”

Ursula Costin, Early learning specialist: “In the words of bell hooks, ‘Love is a combination of care, commitment, knowledge, responsibility, respect, and trust.’ I continue to seek others who think about young children with love and value their lives. This outlook is/will be reflected in the physical, emotional, and learning environments I am engaged in. My words, ways, attitudes, and inspirations stress the strong core belief that all are welcome.”

Margo Ford Crosby, Director, opens with a quote from Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm: “If they don’t give you a seat at the table, bring a folding chair.” She continues:

“…I have often times had to bring my folding chair by way of email, letter, or grassroots action to tables where early childhood and/or my Black voice was not a priority. I am truly grateful for those who say my name at tables where I am not invited…I am still working to achieve my seat at many tables, and I am too classy to flip the table so until I get a seat, I will continue to bring my folding chair to those tables while I am building my own table.” Hear from—and celebrate—all our new Exchange Leaders in the latest issue of Exchange magazine!

For more information about Exchange's magazine, books, and other products pertaining to ECE, go to www.ccie.com.