We are a women-led, non-for-profit organization, dedicated to providing exceptional CDA training.
Meet our Board of Directors:
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PRESIDENT, Patti Dickmann is a recently retired associate professor of Early Childhood Education, having taught close to years in a large, community college in Indiana. She has over 43 years experience working with young children, from birth through Kindergarten, as a teacher in childcare centers and as a center director. She received her master's degree from Purdue University. Patti is a certified Professional Development Specialist for the Council for Professional Recognition. She is co-founder of this organization.
VICE PRESIDENT, Julie A. Vincent is an award-winning public relations professional with expertise in crisis communications and preparedness, reputation management, and media relations and training. Her career has spanned more than 40 years, primarily in the area of public utilities, as well as serving as the North American spokesperson for several global companies. Throughout her career, she was also a consultant to many clients through her company Wordsmith Communications Group, Inc., one of which included work with pre-K programs and related child care issues. In addition, Julie served as a consultant with the Indiana Department of Homeland Security in the Public Information Office and was called into service whenever Indiana experienced a crisis. After retirement, she was a professor for 10 years in the School of Journalism and Public Relations at IUPUI, now IU Indianapolis. Julie continues some freelance writing as well as being available for crisis work.
TREASURER, Jane Yale has over twenty years of owning a real estate property management company in Indiana. After college graduation with a major in Business Administration and a minor in Accounting, she worked in Finance and Retail Management for the largest Indiana Department Store. She is currently retired and stays active in local community management.
SECRETARY, Shannon Hege is an accomplished early childhood education professional with over 24 years of experience shaping high-quality learning environments for young children. As the owner and founder of Shannon’s Exclusive Child Care, she leads an accredited program known for its nurturing culture, strong family partnerships, and excellence in early education. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood Education with a minor in Special Education from Ball State University, along with a Master’s degree in Leadership Development from Saint Mary-of-the-Woods College. This foundation allows her to combine a deep understanding of child development with strong, effective leadership. Shannon’s expertise spans curriculum design, staff training, and center & multi-site management, all guided by her belief that investing in educators is key to helping every child reach their potential. Through her work, she continues to raise the standard for quality care and professional growth in the early childhood field.
DIRECTOR, Debra Pierce is a recently retired professor of Early Childhood Education, having taught at a large, community college in Indiana for over 20 years. Her professional background has always involved children. Debra has spent the last 22 years dedicated to the success of those pursuing the CDA credential and is the author of The CDA Prep Guide: The Complete Review Manual for the Child Development Associate Credential, soon to be in its 5th edition (Redleaf Press), the only publication of its kind. She has a close relationship with the Council for Professional Recognition (the CDA Council), as a CDA Professional Development Specialist, a CDA Council Gold Standard Training Reviewer, and a CDA Council Alumni Network Ambassador for the Midwest states.