“What an incredible day we had this past Saturday at the 13th Annual Early Educator Leadership Forum! 🌟
“The energy in the room at UMass Boston was something we won’t forget. Early educators from across Massachusetts, Maryland, and beyond came together around a theme that couldn’t feel more timely: The Power in Our Collective Voices. And they delivered on it — from the morning plenary speakers who shared their powerful Leadership and Change Projects, to the breakout sessions where program graduates presented their work, to the afternoon panel that sent everyone home with something to think about.”
— Early Education Leaders, an Institute at UMass Boston, on LinkedIn, May 2026
“Yesterday was a milestone day. Attending the 13th Annual Forum of Early Education Leaders, an Institute at UMass Boston provided incredible professional development, but for me, it was also a powerful moment of finding my voice and reflecting on my growth as a leader.
“The day began with the warmest welcome from the staff, greeting us in multiple languages. This is #Diversity and #Inclusivity in action—making sure every educator feels they belong the moment they walk through the door.
“A highlight was hearing Chancellor Marcelo Suárez-Orozco speak. When he transitioned into Spanish, it was a powerful moment of #LanguageEquity. It showed us that our primary language isn’t just a tool for communication; it is a respected language of leadership.”
“Reflecting on my journey:
As I sat in these sessions, I couldn’t help but think about how far I’ve come:
🔹 Year 11: I was shy, navigating the dynamics, and stayed close to Harold Antonio Blanco . We naturally gravitated toward the Spanish sessions for comfort.
🔹 Year 12: Confidence was growing. We celebrated our ECCHO-Latino members presenting and were so immersed in the community that we forgot our certificates.
🔹 Year 13 (May 2): I felt a new level of strength. I made a conscious choice to attend the English session to challenge myself. I’ve realized that a true leader must face their fears to grow. I finally found my voice, and I am loving the sound of it!
“Events like this represent the “why” behind what we do. When we invest in ourselves, we invest in the children and families we serve. We move from being “childcare workers” to recognized Architects of Early Education.”
— Paula Andrea Echeverri Durango on LInkedIn, May 2026