2025 Winter Policy Digital Program by dimphoenix

A Message from Our Executive Director

Dear Esteemed Guests, Community Partners, and Supporters,

Welcome to the fourth annual 2025 Children’s Advocacy Alliance Winter Policy Summit!

It is with great enthusiasm that we have expanded this year’s event. We know it will be a day filled with energy, connection, and focus to our collective work. This time is a unique opportunity to share insights, forge connections, and develop actionable strategies that will drive systemic change in early childhood education, child welfare, and children’s health—issues that are more pressing than ever before.

As we step into 2025, the need for children’s advocacy has never been more urgent. In a world where economic pressures, societal shifts, and public health challenges have disrupted the stability of families and communities, the voices of children and families must be amplified. In these uncertain times, it is our responsibility to come together and ensure that the needs of our youngest and most vulnerable are met, not only to secure their future but to strengthen the future of our entire state.

As the Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Alliance, I am honored to lead an organization that stands at the intersection of advocacy, policy, and community. We are privileged to work alongside a diverse community of advocates, policymakers, impacted individuals, service providers, and other stakeholders who share our mission to uplift and empower families. Together, we are not just addressing today’s needs—we are shaping the future of Nevada’s children, our communities, and our collective well-being.

This Summit is a testament to our shared belief that investing in children during their early years is one of the most powerful ways to invest in the health, prosperity, and equity of our society. Research shows time and again that the first few years of life are critical in shaping a child’s ability to learn, grow, and thrive. This investment pays dividends in stronger communities, better educational outcomes, and healthier futures.

Children cannot wait for change—they need it today. Families cannot wait for better policies — they need them now. The stakes are too high, and the future too important for us to delay action. Let’s use this Summit as a launchpad for the collective, sustained effort required to transform Nevada into a place where children are truly prioritized, where families are supported, and where opportunity and well-being are available to all.

Together, we can create meaningful change.

Wishing you an inspiring and productive day,

AGENDA

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Fourth Annual Winter Policy Summit

Wednesday, January 8th - 6:00pm-8:00pm

Thursday, January 9th - 8:00am-5:00pm

Wednesday, January 8th

6:00pm -7:00pm Registration & Cocktail Hour

7:00pm Welcome & The Children’s Agenda

Holly Welborn, Executive Director, CAA

7:30pm Finding My Voice: How CAA Empowers Advocates to Fight for Their Families and Community

Chelsea Bishop, Parent, CAA Child Advocacy Ambassador, and Co-Founder of Act4Kids

7:45pm Children’s Champions Awards

Brian Knudsen - Leadership in Children’s Health

Deetra Stewart - Leadership in Early Childhood

Jon Norman - Leadership in Child Welfare

The Children's Champion Awards celebrate exceptional leadership and dedication to advancing the well-being of Nevada's children. This special recognition honors individuals who have made outstanding contributions in children's health, child welfare, and early childhood, recognizing their commitment to creating a brighter future for our youngest residents.

Discovery Hall

Finding My Voice: How CAA Empowers Advocates to Fight for Their Families and Community

Chelsea Bishop, Parent, CAA Child Advocacy Ambassador, and Co-Founder of Act4Kids

Chelsea is a Henderson native, registered nurse and mom to four wonderful kids. She and her husband have been licensed foster parents and now adoptive parents as well. Chelsea currently serves on the Nevada Cancer Coalition Board and is president and co-founder of Act4Kids Nevada.

AGENDA

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Fourth Annual Winter Policy Summit

Thursday, January 9th

8:00am-9:00am Registration and Continental Breakfast Discovery Hall

*Legislator Welcome Breakfast & Introduction to CAA ***LEGISLATORS ONLY***

Legislators will meet CAA’s dedicated team and learn about our legislative agenda, advocacy work, and the support we offer This is a unique opportunity to explore how we can work together to advance policies that benefit children and families Redrock

9:00am-9:30am Welcome and Setting the Stage

Holly Welborn - Executive Director, CAA

Special Remarks from Lt Governor Stavros Anthony

9:30am-10:00am Keynote Address: The Role of Child Care and Early Learning in Strengthening Our Economy and our Global Standing

Roscoe Greene - President and General Manager of Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa & Mississippi Early Childhood Investment Council Member

10:00am-11:00am FUNDING OUR FUTURE: Strategic Public Financing for Nevada's Early Childhood System

Bruno Showers - State Policy Manager, Children’s Funding Project

Kylie Wheeler - Senior Manager of Products and Capacity Building, Children’s Funding Project

This session will provide an overview of Nevada's early childhood system strategic public financing plan, which was created in partnership with the Children's Cabinet Attendees can expect a high-level exploration of 1) the early childhood system fiscal analysis, 2) funding gap analysis, and 3) scan of revenue options potentially available to fill the funding gap This discussion will

Discovery Hall

provide ample opportunity for attendees to ask questions, provide feedback, and reflect on what these findings mean for young children and their families across the state of Nevada.

11:00am-11:15am TRANSITION & BREAK

11:15am-12:00pm Breakout Session

Nevada’s Pathway to Universal Pre-K

Annette Dawson Owens, Moderator - Community Engagement Manager, CAA

Michael Mitchell - Office of Early Learning and Development

Lucy Hadley - Education Finance Research Associate, WestEd

Patti Oya - Director, Office of Early Learning and Development

Julie Houchins - Senior Director of Early Education, United Way of Southern Nevada

Nevada is well positioned to advance on a path towards universal pre-K and has been involved in a gradual, multi-year effort, beginning with pilot programs and legislative action aimed at expanding early childhood education. This benefits the child, the family and the community as a whole, while also focusing on our most underserved communities The single best predictor of a child’s future success has been shown to be Kindergarten readiness. This panel will discuss the long-term effects and the return on such investments

Healthcare for Children: What’s at Stake?

Carissa Pearce, Moderator - Health Policy Manager, CAA

Senator Fabian Doñate - Chair of the Senate Health and Human Services Committee

Annette Logan-Parker - CEO, Cure 4 The Kids

Dr. Terence McAllister, MD - President of the Nevada Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Stacie Weeks - Administrator, Nevada Division of Healthcare Financing and Policy

This session discusses what is at risk for access to quality healthcare with circulating threats to federal healthcare program funding. As potential budget cuts loom, children, pregnant individuals, and undocumented populations face significant challenges in accessing essential care This panel will explore the potential consequences for our state, including impacts on access to Medicaid and the ACA, while identifying strategies to protect and expand equitable healthcare access This is not just a conversation it's a call to protect our communities

Discovery Hall

Redrock

11:15am-12:00pm

Breakout Session

Legislative Advocacy 101

Jake Matthews - Government Affairs Manager, CAA

Holly Welborn - Executive Director, CAA

This session offers an introduction to the legislative process, guiding participants on how to turn an idea into a bill and navigate the journey to enactment This interactive session will explore key strategies for legislative success and provide practical insights into advocating for impactful policy change

12:00pm-12:15pm LUNCH

12:15pm-1:15pm Youth-Led Futures: Empowering Foster Youth in Legislative Dialogue

Annette Dawson Owens, Co-Moderator - Community Engagement Manager, CAA

Dr Tara Raines, Co-Moderator - Deputy Director, CAA

Assemblywoman Erica Mosca - Nevada State Assembly

Assemblyman Gregory T Hafen II - Nevada State Assembly

Leah Dods - Strategic Programs Director, Foster Kinship

Arria Barbuti - Foster Youth Advocate

Jayson Lane - Foster Youth Advocate

This panel will explore the unique challenges faced by youth in foster care, focusing on the emotional, social, and educational impacts of displacement and instability Experts, including social workers, foster care alumni, and advocates, will discuss the critical gaps in the system and strategies for improving outcomes for these young individuals. The discussion will also include insights into current legislative efforts, potential reforms, and the importance of policy changes to better support youth aging out of foster care and ensure their successful transition to adulthood

1:15pm-1:30pm TRANSITION & BREAK

1:30pm-2:30pm Improving Nevada’s Early Childhood System

Holly Welborn, Moderator - Executive Director, CAA

Senator Rochelle Nguyen - Nevada State Senator

Denise Tanata - Early Childhood Comprehensive Systems Advisor, The Children’s Cabinet

Patrice Gardner - Vice Chair, Nevada Early Childhood Advisory Committee

Discovery Hall

Sandstone

Anna M. Colquitt - Director of Education Policy, The Guinn Center for Policy Priorities

In this panel, Nevada’s top experts and leaders will explore how a cohesive early childhood system can address challenges, improve equity, and strengthen support for young children and families across the state Gain insights from the latest research from the Guinn Center on Policy Priorities, learn about practical solutions for governance reform, and discover how you can play a role in shaping Nevada’s early childhood future.

2:30pm-2:45pm TRANSITION AND BREAK

2:45pm-3:30pm Breakout Session

Unique Challenges in Home-based Child Care

Dr. Jamelle Nance, Moderator - Early Childhood Policy Director, CAA

Assemblywoman Natha Anderson - State Assemblywoman

Deetra Stewart - Family Childcare

Ivan Alis Williams - Family, Friend and Neighbor Child Care Provider

This panel will explore the unique challenges home-based child care providers face in their attempt to serve Nevada families amid a statewide child care crisis. Home-based care offers affordable, trusted options in neighborhoods families know and trust; however, providers face risks like overregulation, business closures, and loss of homes Join us to learn how we aim to protect child care providers to ensure families have access to quality, flexible care that best meets their needs

Sneak Peek Preview into Children’s Week: March 10-14th

Annette Dawson Owens - Community Engagement Manager, CAA

Children’s Week at the Legislature is a special event where youth and their families can explore how laws are made and meet their local leaders Throughout the week, there are fun and educational activities, including interactive tours, hands-on workshops, and exciting presentations about government and civic engagement It's a great opportunity for Nevada youth to learn about democracy, discover the importance of their voice, and feel inspired to get involved in their community Join us for a sneak peek into Children’s Week at the NV Legislature in 2025 and how we can improve outcomes for Nevada children and families together.

Discovery Hall

Redrock

2:45pm-3:30pm

Breakout Session

Mind Matters: Student Leaders in Mental Health Advocacy

Dr. Tara Raines, Moderator - Deputy Director, CAA UNR Larson Institute Youth Advocates

This youth-led panel recognizes the value of centering young voices in mental health interventions. The panelists will share their personal experiences and insights, providing a unique opportunity to better understand the challenges they face and the solutions they envision. Join us to hear directly from these inspiring young leaders and gain perspective on how we can collectively address mental health challenges in our communities.

Sandstone

3:30pm-3:45pm TRANSITION & BREAK

3:45pm-4:15pm Investing in Our Future: Building Stability and Opportunity for Nevada's Children

Nevada State Treasurer Zachary Conine Discovery Hall

4:15pm-4:30pm Closing Discovery Hall

2025 Annual Winter Policy Summit!

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Staff

Holly Welborn, Executive Director

Holly’s mantra is that she is an advocate with a law license. Youth justice has always been central to her work. During law school she focused on youth law and interned for Legal Services for Children where she represented children in delinquency and dependency matters, Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals and Special Immigrant Juvenile Status applications, and school expulsion proceedings. Holly most recently served as the Policy Director for the ACLU of Nevada where she managed a diverse legislative agenda. She is most proud of her work to limit the transfer of youth under 18 years of age to the adult criminal legal system and to improve living conditions for children in juvenile justice facilities.

She currently serves as a board member of the Institute for a Progressive Nevada, Planned Parenthood Votes Nevada, and the Nevada Coalition Against the Death Penalty. She previously served as a gubernatorial appointee to the Nevada Sentencing Commission and the Advisory Commission on the Administration of Justice. Holly was recognized as a Reno-Tahoe Young Professionals 40 under 40 finalist and is a recipient of the Community Leadership Award from Silver State Equality. As a Nevada native, and first generation college graduate and lawyer, Holly strives to give back to her community through her advocacy and philanthropic efforts.

Dr. Tara C. Raines, Deputy Director & Kids Count Coordinator

Dr. Tara C. Raines is a licensed psychologist with a history of research promoting equity and access in the areas of education and mental health. She is a former Associate Professor and Director of Clinical Training for the School Psychology program at the University of Denver. She has spent the last decade implementing and supporting a number of grants to improve outcomes for youth at highest risk for mental health disorders. She has partnered with large school districts including Clark County School District, the fifth largest district in the country, to do this work. Tara has been active in the Las Vegas My Brother’s Keeper Alliance and sits on the Board of Directors for Democracy Preparatory Academy Nevada and Planned Parenthood of the Rocky Mountains.

Dr. Raines additionally leads cultural immersion experiences in Ecuador to promote cultural humility and Spanish language acquisition in mental health professionals. Dr. Raines has been honored with a presidential citation from APA Division 16 for her work in anti-racism and a presidential award from the National Association of School Psychologists for her work leading the policing in schools taskforce. She believes in the value of using data to identify and implement supports for Nevada’s most vulnerable youth.

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Staff

Annette Dawson Owens, Community Engagement Manager

Annette Dawson Owens, M.A. is a lifelong education advocate who believes in equity and access to an excellent education for all students. She has worked in both district and charter schools and has studied high performing schools and leaders across the country. She has seen first hand, quality outcomes that are possible with effective school design. Annette attended K-12 in the Clark County School District and went on to earn an undergraduate degree in Zoology, a Masters in Education from UNLV, and a Masters in Administration from Sierra Nevada College.

Annette has been appointed by the last 3 mayors to serve on Henderson’s Community Education Advisory Board since its inception and serves on two Charter School Boards. She completed Georgetown’s Executive Leadership through the Public Education Foundation, Henderson Leadership and is grateful to be a Jameson Fellow and serve on Compassionate Las Vegas’ Steering Committee. Annette recently was Nevada’s first White-Riley- Peterson Fellow studying out of school time with peers across the country. In her free time she enjoys exploring the great outdoors. Annette looks forward to working together with the communiity and improving outcomes for all students and families in the great state of Nevada.

Dr. Jamelle Nance, Director of Strong Start Initiatives

Dr. Jamelle Nance enthusiastically joins the Children’s Advocacy Alliance Nevada team to serve as the Director of Strong Start Initiatives. Jamelle brings vast experiences in the field of Human Services, Education, and Organizational Leadership. Her personal and professional experiences are centered around public service to empower, educate, and provide opportunities for families to thrive not just in her community, but across the nation. She has led similar initiatives in her home state of Maryland to provide equitable educational opportunities to those who need it most.

Jamelle earned a bachelor’s degree in Behavioral Science with a concentration in Child Advocacy Studies and a master’s degree in Administration of Human Services both from Wilmington University in New Castle, Delaware. Jamelle is passionate about providing access to essential resources and opportunities that strengthen families and level the playing field. She wholeheartedly believes that a strong start provides children and families with a solid foundation to build a strong and promising future.of working with Make the Road Nevada where he has the opportunity to work towards creating positive change for immigrant communities, ensuring their voices are heard in policy discussions.

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Staff

Ben Douglas, Director of FInance and Operations

Ben Douglas joined Children’s Advocacy Alliance the summer of 2020. With over a decade of experience with non-profits as a board member, serving as President and Treasurer, Mr. Douglas has finally been able to give back by assisting CAA as their Director of Finance and Operations. Ben comes with a great deal of experience from for-profit business serving as the executive in charge of finance, operations and administration. Mr. Douglas has spent the last 15 years facilitating accounting and management classes at the university. Ben loves helping students obtain their dreams by obtaining their bachelors and/or masters degree. Mr. Douglas graduated with his MBA in 2003 and then obtained his Masters of Science in Accountancy in 2010. Ben’s main joy is his family, including his wife of 25 years, three boys, one daughter-in-law and grandson. He is excited to continue fighting for the children of Nevada and beyond.

Jake Matthews, Government Affairs Manager

Jake Matthews is a dynamic relationship builder with an extensive background in Nevada politics. He believes in the power of bringing together good people to create good policy. Jake’s experience extends across diverse sectors, from grassroots advocacy to high-stakes lobbying. Leveraging his strategic insights gained from years of successful electoral efforts, Jake seamlessly transitioned into the public policy sector, most recently working at one of the state’s top government affairs firms where he conducted research and policy advocacy for a broad spectrum of clients. His deep understanding of coalition building and community mobilization allow him to be effective at driving policy outcomes.

Jake earned his degree in International Relations and Political Science from UC San Diego. He also spent several years living in Thailand teaching English and working with Burmese refugee children where he developed a strong passion for education and youth advocacy. He is dedicated to fostering community-driven solutions towards a brighter future for Nevada’s children and families.

Children’s Advocacy Alliance Staff

Carissa Pearce Health Policy Manager

Carissa Pearce (she/her) is a dedicated advocate for children and family well-being, with a strong background in policy advocacy. Her journey began as an intern with CAA in 2022, and soon after she joined as a team member in Health Policy after graduating with a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health. Since joining CAA she has built upon and expanded state and national partnerships leading initiatives to support medical coverage for all children and families in Nevada.

Currently pursuing her MPH in Epidemiology at the University of Nevada, Reno, Carissa is driven by the belief that everyone deserves access to quality care and resources, especially those in underserved populations in Nevada. Through her academic pursuits, Carissa continues to deepen her understanding of health disparities and evidence-based approaches, while building the skills and knowledge to drive impactful policy changes in healthcare, and children and family services. Her commitment to creating equitable systems led her to engage in legislative advocacy, where she played a pivotal role in supporting bills that would benefit vulnerable communities.

Balancing her professional pursuits, Carissa enjoys spending time with her dog, close friends, and family. Her drive, expertise, and compassionate approach make her a valued advocate for creating equitable systems to advance health and family services in Nevada.

Chip Carter, Marketing & Communications

Chip spent most of his professional life in the corporate world before transitioning into the nonprofit space. He has worked with a number of educational organizations including Communities In Schools of Nevada and CORE.

While Chip and his husband do not have children, he believes strongly that every child in our community deserves to grow up healthy, safe, and loved.

He graduated from East Carolina University with a degree in English and worked on marketing campaigns for corporations such as Nike, Pioneer, Paramount Pictures, Valiant Comics, and Artisan Entertainment. He has written numerous licensed books and products for franchises including Star Trek, Harry Potter, The Walking Dead, Marvel, South Park, and DC Comics.

Opening Remarks — Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony

Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony

Stavros Anthony, a Las Vegas resident for 44 years, has made community service and public safety his focus as a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officer, a member of the Nevada System of Higher Education Board of Regents, as a City of Las Vegas Councilman and now as Nevada Lieutenant Governor.

Anthony began his career with Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department in 1980 and most recently served the community as a captain overseeing the Financial and Property Crimes Bureau of the department. As a captain, Anthony spent time in charge of many divisions within Metro including Vice/Narcotics, Northeast Area Command and the Transportation Safety Bureau. He retired after 29 years of service.

Anthony graduated with a Bachelor of Science from Wayne State University in Detroit, Michigan in 1980. In 1987 he graduated with a Master of Arts from the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV), and in 1999 he received his Ph.D. from UNLV. He has also attended the University of Louisville Southern Police Institute Administrative Officers Course and the FBI National Academy in Quantico, VA.

Anthony was elected in 2002 to a four-year term as a regent with the Nevada System of Higher Education and served a second term. As chairman of the Board of Regents, Anthony led the way in developing a master plan, system goals and a value statement.

In 2009, Anthony was elected to the Las Vegas City Council, representing Ward 4, where he served three terms. He also served as Mayor Pro Tem for 7 of those years. In 2014, Anthony was appointed to the Board of Commissioners for the Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies (CALEA). He also served on the board of Goodwill of Southern Nevada, Founders Academy Charter School, and St. John Greek Orthodox Church. Anthony received an Exemplary Service Award from Metro Police in 2006 and received an Award of Excellence in 2002 from the Community College of Southern Nevada where he was an adjunct faculty member.

Anthony was elected as Nevada’s Lieutenant Governor in 2022.

Married for 44 years, the Anthony’s have two daughters who are both graduates of the University of Nevada Reno. Anthony enjoys golfing in his free time and playing with his grandsons.

Children’s Champion Awards Honorees

Councilmember Brian Knudsen Children’s Champion Award for Leadership in Children’s Health

Brian Knudsen was elected to represent Ward 1 in June 2019, enabling him to continue to pursue his passion for public service. Since moving to Las Vegas in 2005, Councilman Knudsen has built programs and services for people and populations in Las Vegas and continues to serve the community as a member of the City Council. Brian was named Mayor Pro Tem on Dec. 21, 2022.

As a Councilmember, Brian now focuses his energy on: transforming the landscape of the Las Vegas Medical District to bring world-class healthcare to the Las Vegas Valley, working with key community leaders to overhaul the crisis management system in our community which are aimed at increasing safety across the board, and improving overall outcomes for Ward 1.

Deetra Stewart Children’s Champion Award for Leadership in Early Childhood

Deetra Stewart is a dedicated professional in the field of early childhood education. Her passion for early childhood education and proven track record of nurturing young minds led her to start her own family child care business in 1993 in Oakland, California where she was raised. Over the years, Dee's commitment to providing quality care and education to children has been unwavering.

In April 2024, she took on the role of founder and President of the 1st statewide Family Child Care Association of Nevada, a pivotal organization that advocates for the interests of family child care providers across the state. This association, affiliated with the National Family Child Care Association (NAFCC), serves as a platform for collaboration, professional development, and resource-sharing within the childcare community.

Jonathan Norman,

Esq.

Children’s Champion Award for Leadership in Child Welfare

Jonathan first started with Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada in 2017 as an attorney in the Children’s Attorney Project representing abused and neglected children. Prior to joining the Legal Aid Center, Jonathan practiced law in New Mexico, working for Diné be’iiná Náhiiłna be Agha’diit’ahii (DNA-People’s Legal Services), the largest Native American based Legal Aid provider in the United States.

The Nevada Coalition of Legal Service Providers consists of Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada, Senior Law Program, Northern Nevada Legal Aid and the Volunteer Attorneys for Rural Nevadans.

Jonathan received his undergraduate degree in Political Science from Xavier University. He received his juris doctor from the University of Cincinnati College of Law in 2011, and is barred in both New Mexico and Nevada.

Keynote Address:

The Role of Child Care and Early Learning in Strengthening Our Economy and our Global Standing

Roscoe Greene, President and General Manager of Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa

Roscoe Greene serves as President and General Manager for the award-winning Harlow’s Casino Resort & Spa in Greenville, MS., a Churchill Downs Incorporated property. An accomplished and multidisciplinary executive with strong business acumen and vision, accompanied by an entrepreneurial mindset and a reputation built on decades of industry experience. Throughout his career, Roscoe has exemplified the qualities of a visionary leader. Before being named President and General Manager of Harlow’s in 2016, Roscoe served as General Manager for Trop Casino Greenville, overseeing day-to-day operations.

Roscoe, a gaming industry veteran, began his career in Las Vegas, Nevada, and served as senior vice president while in the Las Vegas and Laughlin markets. He went on to become senior vice President and General Manager for Caesar’s Entertainments, Bally’s Casino New Orleans, and later senior vice president for Penn Entertainment, where he oversaw day-to-day operations for two Casinos in the Chicago Land area.

Being a staunch believer in strategic partnerships and collaborations, Roscoe has fostered a strong culture of innovation within his organization, resulting in a culture of continuous improvement and professional development for himself and his team.

Moreover, Roscoe’s unwavering commitment to corporate social responsibility distinguishes him as a true leader in the business community. He comprehends the obligation of businesses to contribute to society and actively participates in philanthropic initiatives. From supporting local charities to implementing sustainable business practices, he has left a positive mark in the communities where his company operates.

Roscoe’s exceptional contributions were recognized when he was named the 2023 Businessman of the Year by the Washington County Economic Alliance, where he served on the board of directors. He currently holds the position of Officer for the Mississippi Gaming and Hospitality Association (MGHA) and is a board member for the Boys and Girls Club of Washington County, Delta Compass, and the United Way of Washington County MS. In 2021, he was honored with the C.A.R.E. Award for Washington County for his outstanding service to the community. Roscoe attended the University of Nevada Las Vegas, the University of Nevada Reno, and Aurora University, Aurora, IL, majoring in Business Administration and Hospitality Management.

PANEL — FUNDING OUR FUTURE: Strategic Public Financing for Nevada’s Early Childhood System

Introduced by Denise Tanata, J.D.

Bruno Showers, Policy Manager, Children’s Funding Project

Bruno joined the Children’s Funding Project in 2023 as state policy manager to support the organization’s capacity to analyze state-level revenue options to fund children’s programs.

Prior to joining the Children’s Funding Project, Bruno spent 5 years as senior policy analyst at Arkansas Advocates for Children and Families, where he led the organization’s advocacy efforts related to state tax and budget policies, as well as programs that support family economic security. Bruno has over a decade of experience in the nonprofit and public sector, including time spent at the Arkansas Department of Human Services, the Arkansas Public Policy Panel, and the Center on Budget and Policy Priorities.

Originally from San Jose, CA, Bruno holds a Bachelor of Arts in liberal arts and a Master in Public Administration, both from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. He currently lives in North Little Rock with his girlfriend and their many animals.

Kylie Wheeler, Senior Manager of Products & Capacity Building at Children’s Funding Project

Kylie Wheeler is Senior Manager of Products & Capacity Building at Children’s Funding Project. She joined Children’s Funding Project in 2019 after earning a master’s degree in public policy from the College of William and Mary and has since served as a thought leader and primary technician on the organization’s state and local level strategic public financing plans. Kylie has been engaged with the Nevada Children’s Cabinet since 2022 through her work on the early childhood system strategic public financing plan.

PANEL - Nevada’s Pathway to Universal Pre-K

MODERATOR

Annette Dawson Owens, Community Engagement Manager

Michael Mitchell, Nevada Department of Education

Michael Tomas Mitchell has worked in the early childhood education community in Nevada since 2009. He previously served as the Executive Director of Acelero Learning Clark County and Director of Early Childhood Education at the College of Southern Nevada. Michael graduated with a BS in sociology from Brigham Young University and an MEd in early childhood education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. He is an alumni of LEE’s Emerging Policy and Advocacy Leaders Series, was a participant in the Public Education Foundation’s Executive Leadership Academy, and received a Certificate in Educational Leadership and Management from Georgetown University. He served as a Teach for America corps member from 2009 to 2011.

Michael is motivated by his own experiences as a young learner without access to sufficient educational resources, as well as by clear research that indicates that education is the top indicator of upward social mobility. His goal is to ensure educational equity for Nevada’s young learners. He is the father of a five-year-old son and four-year-old daughter and enjoys family time, traveling, hiking, and sports.

Patti Oya, Director of the Office of Early Learning & Development, Nevada Department of Education

Patti Oya is currently the Director of the Office of Early Learning & Development at the Nevada Department of Education. In her role, Ms. Oya is charged with the development and implementation of a comprehensive early childhood education system designed to ensure that all children from birth through third grade have access to high-quality early care and education. During her tenure at the Department, she has concentrated on expanding universal pre-kindergarten across Nevada. She is dedicated to improving access to early childhood programs by working collaboratively with school districts, community partners, and other stakeholders, with the goal of ensuring future success for every young child in the state.

Ms. Oya has been working in the field of early childhood since 1993 providing direct services in both child care and early intervention. Throughout her distinguished career in state government, she has honed her expertise in strategically implementing statewide early childhood initiatives, addressing equity and access issues in program and system design, managing complex budgeting and contracting processes, and leveraging diverse funding streams to optimize program outcomes.

PANEL - Nevada’s Pathway to Universal Pre-K

Lucy Hadley

Lucy Hadley is a research associate at WestEd. Her projects include analyses of early childhood and K–12 funding systems, as well as cost analyses of specific programs and curricula. Hadley led the cost analysis for a 2023 study of Nevada Ready! Pre-K and is currently supporting the development of Nevada’s universal Pre-K implementation plan. At the 2024 Association for Education Finance and Policy conference, Hadley presented her paper “Counting Pre-K Pennies: Improving Cost Data for Sustainable and Equitable Universal Pre-K Expansion” and was the discussant for a session titled “Research to Inform Advancements Toward Equity in Early Childhood Education.” Her areas of expertise include state financial data systems, financial transparency, quasi-experimental design, and data visualization. Prior to joining WestEd, Hadley led the development of a national dataset of school expenditures at the Edunomics Lab. Hadley holds a BA in English literature from Colby College and an MA in public policy from Georgetown University.

PANEL - Nevada’s Pathway to Universal Pre-K

Julie Houchins, Senior Director of Early Education for United Way of Southern Nevada

Julie Houchins, Senior Director of Early Education for United Way of Southern Nevada has been in the Early Childhood field for over 30 years supporting non-profit, for-profit and local school districts from North Dakota to Nevada. She has been with United Way of Southern Nevada since 2016 supporting their early education efforts throughout Southern Nevada. Julie has collaborated with NDE to manage the Nevada Ready! State PreK programs within private early learning centers/schools throughout the Valley. She is a member of NevAEYC and supports the SNC NevAEYC as Public Policy Committee Chair, she was a member of the ECAC Board from 2020 to 2024. She is very passionate about providing high quality education to our youngest learners and is a strong advocate Universal PreK.

PANEL — Healthcare for Children: What’s at Stake?

MODERATOR

Carissa Pearce, Health Policy Manager

Senator Fabian Doñate,

Chair

of the Health and Human Services Committee

Growing up in Las Vegas, I know that a job is more than just a paycheck. It’s dignity in what we do and security for our families. As the son of immigrants and union members (Culinary and UFCW), I want to ensure that anyone willing to work hard and play by the rules has an opportunity to succeed.

In the State Senate, I’ll make sure that our government invests in the future by fully funding education, allowing Nevada businesses to grow while creating good-paying jobs, and ensuring that everyone has access to quality, affordable, health care.

Annette Logan-Parker, Cure for Kids, CEO

Annette Logan-Parker is the Founder of Cure 4 The Kids Foundation (C4K), Nevada’s only nonprofit pediatric cancer and rare disease treatment center. A former nurse, Annette’s career began with a deep commitment to patient-centered care, which has shaped her visionary approach to transforming healthcare systems.

Founded in 2007, C4K has grown into a nationally recognized organization providing high-quality, family-centered care for children battling cancer, rare diseases, and other complex medical conditions. As the only facility of its kind in Nevada, C4K ensures that no child is turned away for financial reasons, offering life-saving treatment regardless of a family’s ability to pay. The foundation provides cutting-edge therapies, long-term survivorship care, a comprehensive sickle cell disease clinic, and plans for Nevada’s first in-state pediatric bone marrow transplant program. C4K is more than a healthcare provider—it is a lifeline for families, combining compassionate care with innovative medical solutions to ensure children receive worldclass treatment close to home.

Annette has also been a leader in expanding access to gene therapy in Nevada, ensuring that patients with rare genetic disorders and complex medical conditions have access to the most advanced, life-changing treatments available. Through her leadership, C4K has become a hub for innovation in pediatric care, bridging gaps in treatment and providing hope to families who previously had to seek care out of state.

Annette’s dedication to improving pediatric and rare disease care stems from her nursing background, which instilled in her a deep empathy for patients and families navigating complex medical journeys.

PANEL — Healthcare for Children: What’s at Stake?

Dr. Terence McAllister, MD, President of the Nevada Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics

Terence McAllister, MD, FAAP is a primary-care pediatrician at Desert Valley Pediatrics in Las Vegas. Dr. McAllister studied biology at Colby College in Waterville, Maine and received his medical degree from Tufts Medical School in Boston. While in medical school, Dr. McAllister enlisted in the U.S. Air Force and served nine years (six active duty, three reserve) at several Air Force bases including Wright-Patterson in Dayton, Ohio and Kirtland in Albuquerque, New Mexico. He then practiced as a solo practitioner in Massachusetts for ten years before moving his family to Las Vegas to live near family. He is actively involved in the Nevada Chapter of the American Academy of Pediatrics and will be the Nevada AAP Chapter President January 15, 2025 - January 14, 2027.

PANEL — Youth-Led Futures: Empowering Youth in Legislative Dialogue

MODERATORS

Annette Dawson Owens, Community Engagement Manager

Dr. Tara C. Raines, Deputy Director & Kids Count Coordinator

Assemblywoman Erica Mosca

Erica Mosca is a proud first-generation college graduate who is a former teacher, Non-profit Founder & Executive Director and the first Filipina to serve in the NV State Legislature.

Growing up in a low-income household, Mosca experienced first-hand the resilience, tenacity and promise of individuals growing up in marginalized communities and how lack of access and systems perpetuated inequitable opportunities. As her parents always reminded her the definition of success was helping others, Mosca joined Teach For America in 2008 in East Las Vegas after graduating Summa Cum Laude from Boston University.

During her freshman session Mosca passed 5 out of 6 bills into law, Chaired the Asian American Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Caucus and organized regular community members to visit Carson City weekly. She is a proud military spouse and dog mom of their border collie mix Panda.

Assemblyman Gregory T. Hafen II

Gregory T. Hafen II, is from one of the pioneer families of southern Nevada. Gregory was born and raised in Nevada. He is a fifth generation Nevadan and small business owner.

The Hafen family has played a significant role throughout the years, assisting in the growth and development of Pahrump and surrounding areas.

Gregory graduated from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas with a degree in business management. After graduation, Gregory went to work for his family business, Pahrump Utility Company Inc., and climbed his way to general manager.

Gregory is the Chairman of the Desert View Hospital Board and a member of the Nevada Taxpayer Association. He previously chaired the Pahrump Regional Planning Commission, Pahrump Capital Improvement Advisory Committee, chaired the Pahrump Ground Water Management Plan Advisory Committee and has participated in developing numerous Nye County Ordinances and Nye County comprehensive plans.

Gregory has served Assembly District 36 for three terms. During the 80th Session of the Nevada Legislation, Assemblyman Gregory Hafen II served on the Assembly Committees on Government Affairs, Health and Human Services, and Taxation. During the 81st Session of the Nevada Legislation, Assemblyman Hafen served on the Assembly Committees on Ways and Means, Health and Human Services, and Revenue.

PANEL — Youth-Led Futures: Empowering Youth in Legislative Dialogue

Leah Dodds, Strategic Programs Director, Foster Kinship

Leah Dodds is a compassionate advocate for children in nonparental care. Currently, she serves as the Strategic Program Director at Foster Kinship. Leah holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Nevada, Reno.

Motivated by her personal experiences with kinship care within her own family, Leah has dedicated her career to creating meaningful change for children and youth in similar circumstances. Her passion lies in the development and implementation of innovative programs, community organizing and partnership, and policy work that addresses the unique needs of those in non-parental care.

PANEL — Improving Nevada’s Early Childhood System

MODERATOR

Holly Wellborn, Executive Director, CAA

DENISE TANATA, J.D., Denise Tanata Consulting, Inc.

Denise has been working in the field of child advocacy in Nevada since 1998. She has extensive experience conducting applied research and policy analysis on children’s issues, with an emphasis on translating research and data to improve policy and practice. In addition to numerous academic papers, reports and publications in the fields of child welfare, early childhood education and children’s health, Denise has also presented on legislative advocacy focused on empowering individuals toward collective action. She previously served as the Executive Director of the Children’s Advocacy Alliance, a Senior Scholar at the Lincy Institute at UNLV and also served as the Executive Director of the Nevada Institute for Children’s Research and Policy (NICRP) in the School of Community Health Sciences at UNLV.

Denise received her Bachelor’s Degree in Women’s Studies from UNLV, with a minor in Sociology and received her Juris Doctorate from the William S. Boyd School of Law at UNLV. She serves on numerous boards and coalitions aimed at improving the lives of children and families in Nevada and is the recipient of the US Congressional Flag by Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid for her commitment to the children of Nevada as an academic, advocate and volunteer.

Patrice Gardner, M.Ed.

Nevada Head Start State Collaboration Director

Patrice is the Education Programs Supervisor for the Nevada Department of Education’s Office of Early Learning and Development, where she oversees the Child Care Development Fund Grant for Nevada. She also serves as the Director of the Nevada Head Start State Collaboration Office and as the Vice Chair of the Nevada Early Childhood Advisory Council. With over 30 years of experience in the Early Childhood field, Patrice is deeply committed to improving the lives of children and families and is passionate about her work.

Patrice holds a master’s degree in special education with a focus on Early Childhood Education from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas. Throughout her career, she has gained extensive experience in a variety of roles, including Preschool Teacher, Assistant Director, Program Director, and Developmental Specialist. In each of these positions, she has been dedicated to providing high-quality programming, offering parent education, supporting staff development, and building strong partnerships with clients and the community.

PANEL — Improving Nevada’s Early Childhood System

Anna Colquitt, Ph.D., Director of

Education Policy, Guinn Center

Anna Colquitt, Esq. combines a rich background in law and education, exemplifying a commitment to educational advancement. Graduating with a Juris Doctor from the William S. Boyd School of Law, Anna has engaged in diverse legal experiences, from working with the Nevada Supreme Court, to serving as a member of the Curriculum Committee for Boyd Law School. She finalized her Ph.D. in Educational Psychology at UNLV, where her research reflected her interest in exploring the intersection of education and workforce readiness. Anna teaches civic engagement courses at UNLV, and helped develop a service learning research project for undergraduate students in the College of Education.

Complementing her academic achievements, Anna’s active involvement in organizations such as Legal Aid Center of Southern Nevada and Kids’ Court School attest to her deep commitment to community service. Over the last decade, Anna has served numerous charitable boards and worked with organizations including Opportunity Village, Dress for Success, and Communities in Schools. Anna has been recognized for her dedication to serving Nevadans with the following awards: UNLV Highest Pro Bono Honors, UNLV Outstanding Graduate Student Teaching Award nominee, and named ‘Local Hero’ by NBC’s Las Vegas affiliate. Anna’s professional background and research initiatives center around the connections between law and education, and exemplify her dedication to fostering positive growth in the realm of education policy.

Senator Rochelle Nguyen

Senator Rochelle Nguyen is an attorney and currently serves in the Nevada Legislature. She was appointed to the Nevada State Assembly in December 2018, and she was subsequently elected to the position in both 2020 and 2022. In December 2022, she was appointed to the Nevada State Senate, where she currently represents District 3 in Southern Nevada.

During her time in the Nevada State Assembly, particularly during the historic 80th session, Nguyen cofounded the state’s first Asian American and Pacific Islander legislative caucus. She served in various leadership positions, including Chair of the Health and Human Services Committee, Vice Chair of the Judiciary Committee, and a member of the Education committee. In 2023, as a member of the Joint Finance and Ways Subcommittee on Human Services, she served as the Chair.

Outside of her legislative duties, Nguyen practices law as a criminal defense attorney. She obtained her law degree from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, William S. Boyd School of Law, where she cofounded the Public Interest Law Association and played a key role in the establishment of the law journal. She has been a resident of Las Vegas for over 24 years and lives with her husband, Matt, their two children, Henry and Hannah, her father, Thang, and her father-in-law, Dale, along with their dog Neil.

Holly

PANEL — Advocacy 101

MODERATORS

Wellborn, Executive Director, CAA

Jake Matthews, Government Affairs Manager, CAA

PANEL — Mind Matters: Student Leaders in Mental Health

MODERATOR

Dr. Tara C. Raines, Deputy Director & Kids Count Coordinator

Featuring Youth Advocates from the Larson Institute

In 2022, the University of Nevada, Reno was selected as one of eight organizations nationwide to receive funding from the Office of Minority Health (OMH) to tackle the mental health crisis affecting Black youth across the country. Over the past two years, the youth on this panel have undergone comprehensive training in leadership, advocacy, policy change, and the critical importance of mental wellness.

2025 Children’s Week at the Legislature

THE FUTURE OF LEARNING IS HERE

The CENTER FOR THE FUTURE OF LEARNING team is proud to support the Children’s Advocacy Alliance for their unwavering commitment to empowering families, fostering collaboration and driving impactful policies that give every child in Nevada the chance they deserve.

Join us in championing their vital work—because our communities future is worth it.

LET’S MAKE A DIFFERENCE, TOGETHER.

NevAEYC 2025 State Conference April 24-26

Planting Seeds for Tomorrow’s Educators

PANEL — Unique Challenges in Home-based Child Care

MODERATOR

Jamelle Nance, Director of Strong Start Initiatives

Deetra Stewart — Founding President, Family Child Care Assocation of Nevada

Deetra Stewart is a dedicated professional in the field of early childhood education. Her passion for early childhood education and proven track record of nurturing young minds led her to start her own family child care business in 1993 in Oakland, California where she was raised. Over the years, Dee’s commitment to providing quality care and education to children has been unwavering.

In 2009, Dee relocated to Las Vegas, Nevada, where she continued providing care for young children within her family childcare business. Additionally, she pursued higher education at the College of Southern Nevada (CSN), earning an Associate of Arts degree in Early Childhood Education. Armed with a solid academic foundation, years of practical experience, and dedication to the field, she has extended herself beyond her own business. In April 2024, she took on the role of founder and President of the 1st statewide Family Child Care Association of Nevada, a pivotal organization that advocates for the interests of family child care providers across the state. This association, affiliated with the National Family Child Care Association (NAFCC), serves as a platform for collaboration, professional development, and resource-sharing within the childcare community.

As a wife and mother of three adult boys, Dee understands the importance of a nurturing and supportive environment for children to thrive. Her commitment to excellence, combined with her extensive experience and leadership in the field, makes Deetra a respected figure in the early childhood education community, both in Nevada and beyond.

PANEL — Unique Challenges in Home-based Child Care

Assemblywoman Natha Anderson

I am a second-generation Nevadan and a fourth-generation teacher. After earning degrees in English and Education from the University of Nevada, I began my teaching career at Reed High School (my alma mater!). After, I moved on to teach at Vaughn Middle School, and today I continue to teach at North Valleys High School.

As a more than 25 year educator I have seen some serious changes in my profession. The increase of class sizes, the increase of standardize testing and a decrease in resources. What has been a constant – the enthusiasm, excitement and energy generated in the classroom. Our students are bright, inquisitive and curious. They give us hope for the future. We need to continue to have safe classrooms and schools where students are able to think for themselves, question, analyze and collaborate to prepare for their future. This was one of the reasons why I was a very active participant in the 2016 WC-1 campaign.

For past two decades, I have advocated for public education through my leadership positions in the Washoe Education , the Nevada State Education Association and National Education Association, Truckee Meadows Tomorrow and WCSD Education Alliance. I have also been active in other community organizations including Northern Nevada International Center the Women’s Lobby.