Amy McKiernan
Amy McKiernan is a dedicated leader in early childhood education, currently serving as Director of Employee Relations for five school sites at Alphabet Academy/ The Nest in Connecticut. In this role, she travels between campuses to support staff, conduct interviews, facilitate individual and team check-ins, and deliver trainings focused on communication and workplace wellbeing. Over her decade-long tenure with the organization, she has held several leadership positions, advancing from teacher to site director before taking on her current responsibilities. Amy’s professional philosophy centers on supporting people through challenging moments. She focuses on repairing broken communication and strengthening team dynamics. She emphasizes solution-based communication, listening with empathy, and empowering staff to reclaim agency and self-worth. Beyond her administrative work, Amy is a new author of More Than A Survivor: Eight keys to overcoming sexual assault and finding a path to living a fulfilled life. She is active in professional outreach as a presenter with Campus Outreach Services and Take Back the Night, beginning national presentations to advocate for safer communities. She also has been doing podcast appearances to discuss her book. Amy holds a Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education and Psychology from Southern Connecticut State University and is a certified trainer for Crucial Conversations: Mastering Dialogue. Recognized for her leadership and impact, she has been selected to be featured by Influential Women representing Hamden, Connecticut for 2026. Her advice to the next generation emphasizes patience and perseverance: meaningful growth starts with small, intentional choices that compound over time.
• Certified Trainer for Crucial Conversations Mastering Dialogue
• Southern Connecticut State University- B.S.
• Campus Outreach Services
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to resilience and the courage to transform pain into purpose. My healing journey after experiencing sexual assault has shaped my leadership and advocacy, allowing me to support others with empathy, authenticity, and lived understanding. I believe true impact comes from honoring one’s voice and choosing growth, even in the most challenging seasons.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to focus on the small choices, because consistent, intentional steps forward create clarity, healing, and long-term transformation.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would tell young women entering this field that your voice matters—prioritize your healing, set clear boundaries, and never underestimate the power of your story to help others survive and thrive. Seek environments that value empathy and communication and remember that advocacy begins with believing in your own worth. Healing and growth take time, so start with one small, manageable choice and build from there—small decisions compound into meaningful change.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
A major challenge in higher education is reducing stigma and ensuring meaningful support for survivors and education for allies in workplaces, schools, and communities. At the same time, there’s a growing opportunity to expand trauma-informed leadership, advocacy, and public awareness through education, speaking, and storytelling, driving lasting cultural change.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Self-worth, compassion, honesty, and intentional communication guide my work and personal life. I am committed to creating safe, supportive environments where people feel seen, heard, and empowered to heal, while prioritizing family connection, personal wellness, and service to others. In my free time, I enjoy exercise, hiking, and spending meaningful time with my family, reflecting my focus on balance and well-being.
Locations
Alphabet Academy / The Nest Early Learning
2389 Dixwell Avenue, Hamden, CT 06514