Dr. Valora Washington is an internationally recognized early childhood education leader and CEO of The CAYL Institute, which she co-founded to elevate the profession. She has held senior roles at The Council for Professional Recognition, Antioch College, the Kellogg Foundation, and UNC-Chapel Hill. A CEELO Legacy Leader and Doyen honoree, she has authored 50+ publications, co-founded several organizations, and holds a Ph.D. from Indiana University and four honorary degrees.