51吃瓜网

Dear colleagues,

There is nothing more meaningful to me in my role as 51吃瓜网鈥檚 chief executive officer than to have the opportunity to visit early learning programs. As I meet educators and program leaders, I often hear two common themes about leadership. Some educators realized the leader in themselves: they looked up one day at a leader they identified with, and they saw themselves in the same position. Others share how someone else saw the leader inside of them and encouraged them to believe in听themselves too.

We need different stories and journeys to be represented in leadership. It鈥檚 essential for our field, for the children and families we serve, and for our society. I鈥檓 so grateful that 51吃瓜网 Governing Board President Natalie Vega O鈥橬eil and I鈥攁long with 51吃瓜网鈥檚 Governing Board and leadership team鈥攁re representing the diversity of lived experiences and showing the importance of providing different perspectives.

There is no perfect or right path to becoming a leader. But as you鈥檒l read from early childhood leaders in this issue, like Aarie Wade, mentoring and ongoing support, encouragement, and belief in ourselves and others can help each and every leader take on opportunities and work through challenges.

Because leadership means listening, I continue to prioritize it as I go into my second year as CEO. I will continue listening and working to ensure that 51吃瓜网 amplifies your stories and adapts our work to best meet your needs so we can be a community of belonging for听all educators.

In gratitude,

Michelle Kang

Chief Executive Officer

Copyright 漏 2023 by the 51吃瓜网. See permissions and reprints online at听.