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About the Early Excellence Gala

The Early Excellence Gala was created to shine a long-overdue global spotlight on the educators who build the foundation of lifelong learning. It is a heartfelt celebration of early childhood professionals—their dedication, passion, and profound impact on young lives. This event exists to honor those who often do the most, while receiving the least recognition, and to elevate the field of early childhood education through appreciation, advocacy, and community. 

 

The gala was founded by Dr. Taylor D. Spencer, a former public school teacher who deeply understands the joys and challenges of early education. Now a children’s author, singer, content creator, and entrepreneur, she continues to support students, families, and educators through creative media, events, and the daily work of running businesses including Taylor Dee Kids TV Media, Right Now Education, and a Creative Arts Preschool and School Age Center called Wonder Academy. Her journey is rooted in a love for learning and a desire to uplift those who nurture it from the very beginning.

 

The inaugural Early Excellence Gala is supported by the Alliance for Children in Union County under the leadership of Trinisha Dean, her team, and the Inaugural  Early Excellence Gala Committee. 

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Dr. Taylor D. Spencer Founding Chair 
Early Excellence Gala 

Our Committee

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Trinisha Dean 
Executive Director 
Alliance for Children 

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Megan Humphrey 
Program Manager
Alliance for Children  

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Alexa Jackson 
Operations Director
Wonder Academy Creative Arts Preschool and School Age Center 

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Jennifer Kappas 

Chelsea Belyea 

Tiffany Presson 

Catey Brown 

Jamie Hart

 

Tonya Silas 
Program Lead
Faculty Early Childhood Education

Gallery

Gala Events Gallery

What They're Saying...

This Kind of Recognition is Long Overdue

Family Childcare Home Provider

"I’m so excited for the Early Excellence Gala—it’s going to be such a fun and meaningful night. I can’t wait to dress up, celebrate with my colleagues, and finally experience an event that’s truly just for us. This kind of recognition is long overdue, and I’m genuinely looking forward to it!"

About the Gala

The Early Excellence Gala honors and celebrates the contributions and hard work of early childhood professionals. 

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Get in Touch

earlyexcellencegala.org

​earlyexcellencegala@gmail.com

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