Early Childhood Fellowship Spotlight: Stacy Corll

Leading with Purpose: My Journey in Early Childhood and the Fellowship Ahead

Hello! My name is Stacy Corll, and I’m the owner and director of Little Loves Learning Center, a preschool program dedicated to nurturing young minds through high-quality early childhood education. With over 20 years of experience in the field and five years running my own center, I’ve had the privilege of working closely with children, families, and educators in my community. My daily work focuses on creating safe, supportive, and developmentally rich environments where children can thrive, especially those from underserved backgrounds.

When I first learned about the Early Childhood Leadership Fellowship, I felt an immediate calling. I applied because I believe that real change in our early childhood system begins with strong, informed, and passionate leaders. This opportunity felt like the next step in growing my ability to advocate not just for my own center, but for children and families across the state of Ohio.

I’m most excited to learn from the diverse perspectives of other Fellows, deepen my understanding of policy and systems change, and gain the tools needed to be a more effective voice at the table. I know that collaboration is key, and I’m eager to build relationships that fuel shared solutions.

I first got involved with Groundwork Ohio through my engagement with OAEYC (Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children). Through their partnership, I was introduced to Groundwork’s mission and quickly connected with their public advocacy efforts and caregiver-focused resources. Their commitment to equity in early childhood deeply resonated with my own values. It’s encouraging to see an organization so dedicated to centering community voices—especially those of providers like me who are doing the work every day.

One issue I’m deeply passionate about is access and affordability. Too many families are left without quality child care because of cost barriers, and too many educators are underpaid and overworked. I want to help shape a system where families aren’t forced to choose between quality and affordability, and where educators are recognized and supported as the professionals they are.

My own lived experience as both a parent and early childhood educator has given me a deep understanding of the joys and challenges families face. I’ve seen firsthand how trauma, poverty, or lack of resources can impact a child’s development—and how powerful early interventions and nurturing environments can be. These experiences fuel my drive to lead with empathy, authenticity, and a deep commitment to justice.

To make Ohio the best place to be a young child, we need to invest boldly in the early years. That means supporting caregivers, educators, and parents; expanding access to quality programs, and building systems that work with communities, not for them.

As a leader, I hope to use my voice to elevate real stories, challenge inequities, and champion policies that honor the potential of every child. Whether in local meetings, at the statehouse, or through my day-to-day work, I’m committed to being a strong, clear, and compassionate advocate now and in the future.