ABOUT
MISSION AND HISTORY
The Oklahoma Association for the Education of Young Children’s mission is to support all who care for, educate and work on behalf of young children.
Through our work we support professionals, families and children by sharing resources and advocacy information to meet the need for high quality early care and education.
Since our founding in 1955, OKAEYC has been committed to advancing the field of early childhood education in Oklahoma. As a proud affiliate of the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) and the Southern Early Childhood Association (SECA), we bring nearly 70 years of dedication and advocacy to support early educators and families working tirelessly to make a difference in the lives of young children.
OKAEYC is here to support these remarkable individuals by amplifying their voices and advocating for what’s right for children, their families, and educators. Through our professional development opportunities, quality improvement initiatives, and legislative efforts, we work to create lasting, positive change in early childhood education.
OKAEYC is currently in the process of reestablishing state chapters that provide programming at the local level for our members. Our state organization has an annual conference with hundreds in attendance. We provide a monthly newsletter, host formal trainings, regional conferences, as well as work with stakeholder partners to advocate for quality early care and education experiences for all children in the state of Oklahoma.
By joining OKAEYC, you’ll become part of a passionate community committed to empowering early childhood professionals and building a brighter future for young learners across Oklahoma.
Board Membership:
Service on the OKAEYC Board is a chance to help drive the decisions of our highly-respected national and state associations. Holding an office on the state board is also an opportunity to work with other leaders in the state, guide OKAEYC strategic goals, and influence programs, training, and issues in the state. Board service is a chance to grow personally and professionally, to develop skills, gain unique experience, and make lasting connections with a team of other passionate and motivated professionals.
Board members
Public Relations Co-Chair: Bailey Maxey
Conference Co-Chairs: Dr. Marla Pankratz & Leslie Scrivner
Public Policy Chair: Andrew Norton
Secretary: Brandi Browne
SECA Representative: Sarah Albahadily
Vice President of Membership: Christy Taylor- Hamilton
Vice President of Chapters: Grace Rogers
Treasurer: Dr. Susan Tabor
President Elect: Dr. Stephanie Hinton
Past President: Jana Cornelius
President: Carina Amrine
Business Manager (Ex officio board member): Amanda Waters
OPEN POSITION(S):
Student Representative
Commitee members: leadership, conference, social media/PR, grants