Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant Nationwide Children’s Hospital Kristen brings a diverse professional background and is a passionate advocate for the health and well-being of young children and families. She currently serves as an Early Childhood Mental Health (ECMH) Consultant with Nationwide Children’s Hospital, where she partners with early care and education providers to promote social-emotional development and resilience in young children. Kristen’s dedication to systems-level change and community collaboration is reflected in her previous work as a Teacher Consultant at Ohio University's Center for Intervention Research in Schools, and as a Parent and SEL Educator with Pathways of Central Ohio. In these roles, she led prevention and intervention programs, built strong school and community partnerships, and expanded access to family-centered support. A committed advocate for equity and early childhood policy, Kristen is honored to join Groundwork Ohio as a Fellow, where she looks forward to amplifying the voices of children and families across the state and driving positive change through data-informed advocacy and collaboration. Kristen holds a Master of Public Administration from Ohio University and a Bachelor of Science in Social Work from the University of Dayton. When she’s not working, Kristen loves being a hockey mom, playing tennis, reading, and hanging out with her family and friends.

Clinical Manager The Buckeye Ranch Sarnell Breedlove graduated from the Ohio State University with a Master's Degree in Social work. Sarnell Breedlove is an independently licensed social worker with over a decade of experience in the field. Since 2014, Sarnell has dedicated her career to supporting various non-profit organizations, bringing a wealth of knowledge and compassion to her work. Currently, she serves as the Clinical Manager of School-Based and Early Childhood Mental Health Programming at the Buckeye Ranch, where she oversees critical initiatives aimed at improving the mental health and well-being of children and families.

Clinical Manager Little Loves Learning Center Stacy Corll is the passionate Owner, Administrator, and Pre-K Lead Teacher at Little Loves Learning Center in Salem, Ohio. With an associate degree in Early Childhood Education from Kent State University, Stacy has turned her lifelong dream into a vibrant, nurturing learning environment where children thrive academically, socially, emotionally, and spiritually. A Career Pathways Level 5 professional and holder of the Ohio PROMISE Professional Credential, Stacy exemplifies leadership and excellence in early childhood education. She is a proud member of the Ohio Association for the Education of Young Children (OAEYC) and a committed advocate for high-quality early learning experiences. Stacy’s dedication has earned her the distinction of being a two-time "Best of the Best" Preschool winner, recognizing her outstanding impact on the local community. In 2024, she completed "The Serving Leader Virtual Institute: Early Childhood Leadership Cohort", where she further sharpened her servant leadership skills. She has also shared her expertise as a presenter at the OAEYC Early Childhood Conference in both 2023 and 2024. At Little Loves, Stacy creates a safe, faith-based space where every child is loved and supported like family. She emphasizes strong family partnerships and individualized care, fostering a deep love of learning and a sense of belonging in every student. Stacy lives on a beautiful77 acre farm in Columbiana with her husband and business partner, Benjamin, and their daughter, Maggie. Together, they’ve built a family-centered community at Little Loves Learning Center—one that reflects Stacy’s unwavering dedication to faith, education, and the future of young children.

Director Toledo Day Nursery With over 10 years of dedicated experience in early childhood education. Chelsea Davis serves as the Director of Toledo Day Nursery, where we aim to positively impact children’s lives. Known with a heart to serve and a commitment to excellence, Chelsea leads with compassion, vision and a deep understanding of how early learning shapes lifelong success. Chelsea firmly believes in the importance of social emotional learning, early literacy, and tailoring strategies to meet the individual learner. She believes in the power of curiosity-driven exploration and building strong partnerships with families to support each child’s unique learning journey

Infant Early Childhood Mental Health Clinical Supervisor Applewood Centers Shashi DeHaan, LISW, MSW, MAS-IFP, IMH-E ®, CFTP, is an endorsed Infant Mental Health Mentor – Clinical. Shashi received a Masters in Social Work from Marywood University and a Masters of Advanced Study in Infant Family Practice from Arizona State University. Shashi currently works for Applewood Centers in Cleveland, OH, as IECMH Clinical Supervisor. Additionally, Shashi provides contractual Reflective Supervision/Consultation and professional development. Previously, Shashi has more than 10 years of experience in community mental health. Prior to this child welfare mental health career, Shashi has over 30 years of services with young children, youth, and families across North America. Shashi is looking forward to learning and growing with families of Ohio.

Literary Specialist The Wellington School Emeri Ferguson is currently the Literacy Differentiation Specialist/Coach at the Wellington School. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in psychology and Spanish from Ohio Wesleyan University, is certified in PreK-5th grade with a reading endorsement, a Master’s Degree in literacy from American College of Education and carries a certification as a Dyslexia Interventionist through the Center for Effective Reading Instruction. Having over a decade of experience and a diverse background through volunteering with AmeriCorps with Children’s Hunger Alliance, working as an early childhood educator and in a public school until her current position at Wellington, Emeri’s passion and experience allows her to be an advocate for closing the education gap due to a combination of affordable childcare in correspondence with early childhood education and professional development for educators. She currently resides in Hilliard, OH with her husband and 3 boys (with 1 girl on the way). Emeri looks forward to growing as an educator and advocate, while working to make a difference in the lives of all children and parents.

Early Head Start Coordinator All 4 Kids 2 As a wife, mother of four children, Early Head Start coordinator, Acting Administrator and Lead Teacher at All 4 Kids 2; Eternity S.Frye is a true model of the Millennial generation. In 2023 she obtained her CDA for the second time, as well as her credential in Infant Mental Health. In addition to receiving her credentials in level 1 Trauma Informed Care, and Ohio PROMISE inclusion levels 1 and 2 in 2024. Prior to serving the community to this capacity, Eternity was a stay at home mom, entrepreneur and caregiver to her mother and grandmother until their passing in 2020, and 2021. In 2018 she was recognized and selected to become a member of National Society of Leadership and Success for maintaining a GPA of 3.5 while attending Southern New Hampshire University studying Fashion Merchandising. Eternity is known to have a servants heart. With a deep desire to help others rather young or old.

Recruitment Supervisor Family Connections Spark Program A graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science in Human and Consumer Sciences and a concentration in Early Childhood Education and Family Studies. Monica Gaulden has been an advocate for children and families for over 25 years. Her earliest work experience at Bellefaire JCB exposed her to the impact that emotional trauma has on the family as a unit, and she gained another perspective and understanding for the importance of the foundational fundamentals needed for developmentally appropriate practices for young children. Monica used her insight for families and communities working with early childhood prevention and intervention in alcohol tobacco and other substances with the Iwo San Program. As a Family Service Worker and Site Administrator for Head Start in Cuyahoga County, she cultivated important lasting relationships connecting families with resources for 14 years. She presently works as the Recruitment, Retention, and Training Supervisor for Family Connections of NE Ohio’s SPARK Cuyahoga home visiting program. Monica strives to make an impact by promoting the 2Generational approach to literacy, community, and family, supporting children’s social and emotional health. Monica developed a passion for policy making and legislation after she attended the Groundwork Advocacy Day. Being in a room with those who have the same commitment and passion to support families and children was electrifying and revealed her next step to ensuring strong families for stronger communities. When Monica is not advocating for families, she enjoys spending time with her husband and daughters and their mischievous 10-year-old Kerry Blue Terrier” Boscoe:”. She also enjoys spending time gardening, bargain hunting and traveling. She looks forward to the opportunity to serve and to use her voice to impact legislation for families throughout the state of Ohio.

Management Analyst of Early Learning Policy Franklin County Board of Commissioners Emma Ginther is an early childhood education professional and policy analyst with a deep commitment to shaping equitable, effective educational systems. With over 20 years of experience spanning early learning classrooms, nonprofit leadership, and local government, she brings a uniquely holistic perspective to educational policy development. As a Management Analyst of Early Learning Policy with the Franklin County Board of Commissioners, Emma conducts complex operational research, analyzes trends in program performance, and advises leadership on federal, state, and local policy changes impacting early childhood education. Her role bridges data and decision-making, ensuring that policy recommendations are grounded in both evidence and community needs. Emma’s foundation in education policy is informed by her extensive classroom experience. She previously served as a Lead Teacher and staff representative on the Board of Directors at North Broadway Children’s Center, where she designed developmentally appropriate, inclusive curriculum and supported staff professional growth. She has worked across the educational landscape—from infant care to out-of-school-time programs—strengthening her understanding of the systemic supports children and families need to thrive. Emma is a born and raised Columbus native where she resides with her husband and their two cats.

Project Manager Future Ready Five Megan currently leads the Kindergarten Readiness Collaborative at Future Ready Five as their Senior Project Manager. As a graduate from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science degree in Early Childhood Development, Megan knew she would always be involved in providing equitable learning opportunities within her local community. While teaching preschool, she went on to continue her education at the graduate level and obtained her Ohio teaching license from Ashland University. Megan later taught first grade for nine years at Teays Valley Local School District, where she can be credited with writing grants and leading projects to add ADA accessible playground equipment and a student-led community garden. Whether her career has been in teaching or serving in the education non-profit industry, Megan can still be found giving back to the community in her free time. She continues to volunteer and host various fundraising events to support local and national projects benefiting youth experiencing inequities. Her mission is to always advocate for at-risk youth and to foster equitable opportunities for all.

Director Children’s Learning Center at Shawnee State University Heather Howard is the Director of the Children’s Learning Center at Shawnee State University, a role she has held with dedication and heart for nearly three years. A proud alumna of SSU, Heather earned a BA in social science and education bringing over two decades of classroom experience to her leadership. For 22 years, she taught first and second grade, leaving a lasting impact on generations of students in the same school district where her great-grandmother and grandmother once taught. As a fourth-generation educator, Heather carries on a legacy of service in education with deep commitment and heartfelt purpose. Her career reflects a lifelong passion for nurturing young learners and supporting their growth through both classroom instruction and early childhood leadership. Grounded in faith, inspired by tradition, and driven by a love for children and learning, Heather continues to make a lasting impact in the lives of families and educators throughout her local community.

Provider Services Coordinator Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development Kaylee Louis is an early childhood professional with over three years of experience supporting childcare providers through her work at the Corporation for Ohio Appalachian Development (COAD). In her role, she delivers technical assistance, coaching, and hands-on support to help early educators strengthen program quality and create nurturing, developmentally appropriate environments for children. Her passion for early care and education was sparked by her own experience as a mother of two and has grown into a lifelong commitment to improving outcomes for young children and families. Kaylee’s work is rooted in both personal experience and professional training. She holds an Associate's degree in Human Services and a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Tiffin University. Her work focuses on helping all children have access to quality early care, supporting childcare providers in building their skills and confidence, and speaking up for what young children need during the most important years of their growth and development.

Owner/Administrator TimberTops Dayhome Samantha Forsythe currently holds the position as Education Systems Coordinator for the Child Development Council of Franklin County, with over 10 years of experience as a Head Start (HS) and Early Head Start (EHS) educator. Samantha was a Head Start student, a Head Start parent, and has held multiple positions including Assistant Teacher, EHS Lead Teacher, Home Visitor, and Home Base Service Coordinator. Samantha received her AAS in Early Childhood Development and Education from Columbus State Community College and is a recent graduate of The Ohio State University with a Bachelor of Science in Child and Youth Studies. In her free time, she enjoys reading, being outdoors, and spending time with her family.

Early Education Program Specialist Starting Point Stephanie Moore is an Early Education Specialist at Starting Point, providing technical assistance, coaching, and training to licensed Family Child Care Programs. Her work focuses on improving and maintaining the quality of program services provided to young children and their families. Stephanie is passionate about being a voice for young children, providing them with opportunities to learn and grow in a safe and secure environment. She is always open to connecting with fellow professionals and exploring new opportunities for collaboration. She has over thirty-five years of experience in the early childhood field, having held various roles within non-profit organizations. Her career journey includes positions as a lead teacher, site supervisor, education specialist, and nineteen years as a center director for a non-profit program. She has extensive experience in developing and implementing educational programs for young children. She is skilled in managing and overseeing early childhood education centers. Her expertise is in providing training and coaching to educators and childcare providers. She received an associate’s degree in early childhood and went on to receive a bachelor’s degree in Instructional Design (Adult Learning). She is currently a member of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC). Some of my accomplishments include serving as a mentor with the SUTQ Mentorship Program. Provided trainings at local conferences and the OAEYC State Conference, and have volunteered in children's programs at her church. In her personal time, she enjoys spending time with family and friends and trying out new recipes in the kitchen.

Director Toledo Day Nursery Julia Myers has been a dedicated Toledo Day Nursery team member for the past eight years, serving as the Director for the last three years. Her commitment to early childhood education is rooted in her academic background, earning her a Bowling Green State University degree. Further enhancing her expertise, Julia received certification in the Reggio Emilia curriculum from Antioch University, a testament to her dedication to child-centered learning. Throughout her tenure at Toledo Day Nursery, Julia has passionately advocated for documentation and creating cozy, nurturing environments that support child-led learning. She believes children thrive when allowed to explore their interests in a warm, inviting setting. Her leadership is marked by a commitment to fostering environments where children can learn through exploration and discovery. Julia's passion for creating enriching educational experiences is deeply connected to her personal life as a mother and her love for learning. She brings a unique perspective to her role, understanding the importance of nurturing curiosity and fostering a lifelong passion for learning in every child she encounters.

Early Childhood Specialist The Wellington School Ellen Rhomberg is the Early Childhood Specialist at The Wellington School, where she has spent the last four years nurturing young minds in early childhood education. With over a decade of experience in the field, Ellen has taught children aged 2 to 6 in various settings, including public and private schools, as well as single-sex and coeducational environments. She earned her bachelor's degree in Human Development and Learning, along with a PreK-3rd teaching license, from the University of Memphis, followed by a master's degree in Instruction and Curriculum Leadership with a specialization in early childhood education. Ellen is deeply committed to ensuring that quality early education is accessible to every child, regardless of zip code or financial status. She believes that every child deserves the opportunity to thrive and that play should be an essential part of learning, making it a necessity rather than a privilege. Ellen has done extensive partner work with Porter-Leath in Memphis, TN, and more recently, she has been volunteering with Future Ready Five since moving to Columbus, Ohio. Outside of her professional role, Ellen enjoys hiking and spending time outdoors with her husband and their beloved dog, Oslo, in Powell. She is excited to continue her journey in early childhood education, advocating for impactful changes that benefit all children and families.

Early Childhood Mental Health Consultant Mercy Health Ms. Linda Rowlett is a supervising independently licensed social worker serving in Ohio. She attended Bowling Green State University, where she obtained a Bachelor of Science in Social Work degree, with a minor in Gerontology. Upon completion of her undergraduate studies, Ms. Rowlett attended Case Western Reserve University where she received a Master of Science in Social Administration degree, with a focus in Children Youth and Families. For the last 17 years, Ms. Rowlett has worked with young children, teens, adults and families. This work has been offered in a variety of environments including hospitals, community mental health agencies, nursing homes, inpatient psychiatric facilities, childcare centers, school-based settings private practice and home health agencies. Ms. Rowlett is currently serving as the Region 1 Co-Director on the Ohio National Association of Social Workers Board of Directors. Additionally, Ms. Rowlett teachers, as an adjunct faculty member, in the Social Work program at Bowling Green State University. Though the location has changed, Ms. Rowlett’s commitment to serving the community has remained solid.

Executive Director Foundations Community Childcare Brandy Scheetz is the Executive Director of Foundations Community Childcare, a ground-breaking non-profit childcare center with the mission of providing the highest quality care and education to families in the Ashland area. Brandy brings 25 years of experience in the field of education and a passion for making a difference in the lives of young children. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Education and a Master of Arts in Literacy, both from Baldwin-Wallace University. With a focus on brining local business leaders and legislators alongside to support equal access to high-quality Early Childhood Education for all families, Brandy’s goal is to develop partnerships that will have a remarkable impact on the children, families, and workforce in Ohio.

Director Nest Schools Dublin Kierra Smith is an early childhood education leader and former attorney with over 15 years of experience managing large-scale educational programs. With a bachelor's degree in sociology and a JD, she brings a unique lens to her work—grounded in both legal expertise and a deep understanding of social systems. She is deeply committed to driving systemic change that values, supports, and retains high-quality early childhood educators, recognizing their critical role in the development of young children. Passionate about maternal mental health and equity in education, she advocates for policies that elevate the early childhood profession and improve outcomes for families.

Early Intervention Supervisor of Intake and Eligibility Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services Emilee Stahl is transitioning into a new role as the Early Intervention Supervisor of Intake and Eligibility with Hamilton County DDS. She previously worked as a Trainer/Service Coordinator for Franklin County EI. Emilee graduated from The Ohio State University with a Bachelor’s in Education and focused studies in Early Learning throughout her schooling. She worked at OSU's Child Care Center throughout college and upon graduating. Emilee joined Early Intervention in 2020. Emilee’s passion and love has always been with children ages birth-5 years old and finds excitement and joy working with families and young children. Emilee is excited to learn how to better advocate for the families and children she serves every day. In her free time, Emilee loves traveling to different amusement and theme parks with her husband and family. She enjoys going on adventures with her niece and nephews and watching them grow and learn as well.

Early Childhood Mental Health Coordinator Greene County Educational Service Center Carrie Taylor, BSW, M.Ed., OIMHP-III, ECMH-C, holds the Early Childhood Mental and Infant Mental Health credential in Ohio as well as an Ohio Teaching and Intervention Specialist license. She has a Bachelor of Science in Social Work and a Master’s in Education. Carrie has been working with children and families for 20 years in a variety of settings. Currently Carrie is the Early Childhood Mental Health Coordinator for the Greene County Educational Service Center. She has expertise in a variety of Social Emotional and Behavioral Evidence Based Programs and is a certified trainer including PAX Good Behavior Game, Triple P parenting, Mental Health First Aid, The Growing Brain, Trauma 101, and many more. Carrie’s extensive experience also includes work as a child advocate, ABA therapist, preschool teacher and pediatric/medical social worker. Carrie also volunteers as a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) where she advocates in the court system for a child’s best interest. Carrie is passionate about working with children, families, community partners and teachers to promote social and emotional development of young children.

Program Development Coordinator Starting Point Marisol Torres is from The Bronx, New York, and relocated to Cleveland, Ohio in her teens. She is of Puerto Rican descent and is fluent in both Spanish and English. She is the Program Development Coordinator at Starting Point Child Care Resource and Referral and has a dual role as a Job and Family Services Licensing Specialist. She began her journey working with families and children in the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP), monitoring family Child Care homes to ensure that nutritional guidelines were followed and that Federal requirements were met for children. From there, her passion for Family Child Care was born, and she began a career in the business of Family Child Care. Marisol has been an advocate for families for over 35 years, during which she has dedicated herself to Child Care and early education, focusing on the environmental health and safety needs for the well-being of children. Her commitment to advocate for families and children is exceptional. She strives to provide opportunities for professional Child Care providers with micro-businesses to feel empowered, providing business training, coaching, and support to continue their path in Early Childhood Education. Marisol is enthusiastic about advancing her leadership and advocacy skills to impact and generate lasting changes for families and children significantly.

Owner/Director Humblebee Childcare and Nanny’s Multi Level Learning Center Helaine Wilson is an accomplished childcare business owner with over 13 years of dedicated experience in early childhood education. As the founder and director of Humblebee Childcare and Nanny's Multi Level Learning Center in Cincinnati, Ohio, Helaine has successfully grown her business from a home-based family childcare operation to managing multiple Gold-rated childcare centers. Beginning her entrepreneurial journey in 2011, Helaine established Humblebee Childcare as a family childcare provider. Through strategic planning and commitment to quality, she expanded her business in 2017 by converting Humblebee into a full childcare center. This successful growth continued with the launch of a second location, Nanny's Multi Level Learning Center, in January 2022. A graduate of Cincinnati Christian University with a Bachelor's in Business Management, Helaine combines strong business acumen with specialized knowledge in early childhood education. She also holds a Child Development Associate (CDA) credential. Helaine's leadership extends beyond her own businesses as a 2020 graduate of the prestigious Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program. Her centers have earned Gold ratings through Ohio's Step Up To Quality program, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to providing exceptional early childhood education. At her centers, Helaine oversees all business operations while focusing on developing age-appropriate educational programs that foster children's cognitive, social, emotional, and physical development. Her dedication to excellence has built a strong reputation in the community, resulting in high enrollment rates, and parent satisfaction.

Early Literacy Specialist Toledo Lucas County Public Library Denise is an Early Literacy Specialist with the Toledo Lucas County Public Library. While she is fairly new to this position, she is not new to the field of Early Childhood Education. After receiving her Masters in Special Education from Bowling Green State University, Denise worked as an Early Intervention Developmental Specialist for over 11 years. In this role she helped families of children from birth to 3 years increase their competence and confidence in supporting their children’s development as well as their advocacy skills, teamed with a variety of community partners to create more welcoming and supportive spaces, and provided trainings for childcare professionals. Denise served as a member of an advisory board to help establish BGSU’s Inclusive Early Education Program, then went on to teach in that program as an adjunct instructor. Her passion for supporting parents and caregivers of young children, coupled with her love of reading and belief in the importance of early literacy, led Denise to her current position. She is excited to be working with the library to connect people, share knowledge, inspire lifelong learning and promote access for all. She is looking forward to collaborating with this year’s cohort class in support of families and young children across our state.