Her Story
About Jill
Jill Stahr serves as a Health and Safety Coach, the local title for her role as a child care consultant with the University of Kentucky, a position she has held for six years. She earned her IECE degree from the University of Kentucky in 2003 after shifting from an initial interest in law during her undergraduate studies, when time spent in an early childhood lab sparked her passion for the field. Prior to her current role, she taught public preschool in Kentucky for 17 years and later directed a local childcare program within the public school system. She also holds a Certificate in Family and Early Childhood Public Policy and has been a member of NAEYC and SECA.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Jill
01What do you attribute your success to?
My parents instilling a good work ethic and a love of people, and being able to get in there and get your hands dirty, get down to the nitty-gritty of everything, and figure out what people need, and try to meet them in that need.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
Find what you love to do, and do it wholeheartedly.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
This field is really a calling. Get as much experience before making commitments to education and time. You have to have a thick skin sometimes and have a real commitment to making environments better for children.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
There has been a real spotlight on the importance of parents being able to access quality care, contributing to the economy and allowing families to participate while having good safe quality care for their children. There are regulatory changes causing stress and growing pains, but also greater support and opportunity for increased economic support for childcare and early education.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
Being dependable, someone that people can trust and go to if they need help, being very honest, and trustworthiness.
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