SUSAN GILMORE

From preschool teacher to social entrepreneur, you could describe Susan Gilmore as visionary, passionate, relentless, innovative, nimble, problem solver, and change maker! Armed with a degree in early education and nine years of teaching experience, Susan founded the North Bay Children’s Center (NBCC) 35 years ago at the age of 28. Today NBCC’s programs have grown into a leading, regional safety-net organization with thirteen sites throughout the North Bay that has helped thousands of families while addressing two nationally recognized problems that threaten the futures of our children: the education achievement gap, and the childhood obesity epidemic.

Recognizing the direct correlation between the lack of affordable childcare and the high cost of employee turnover; and quality early education with later academic success; Gilmore set out to create a model for full-day, year-round childcare for families across the income spectrum with a focus on breaking the cycle of poverty for vulnerable families within our communities.

As President and CEO, Susan’s next project is leading the Bright Futures Capital Campaign to complete the construction of a vibrant, 21st-century child development center at the decommissioned Hamilton Airforce Base. Once complete, NBCC’s headquarters will double the number of children served and continue to promote early education and healthy eating to as many young minds as possible for years to come. Visit NBCC’s website to learn more.