Karen Lucy

I attribute my success to the diverse experiences that have shaped my approach to leadership and service. Before entering the field of education, I spent over 12 years in real estate management—an industry that taught me invaluable lessons in leadership, communication, and problem-solving. Those skills became the foundation for my administrative work at Cornerstone Center for Early Learning, where I’ve spent the past two decades dedicated to supporting children, families, and staff. Through my journey, I’ve learned that true leadership is rooted in guidance, adaptability, and empathy—especially when working with families from diverse and often under-resourced backgrounds. At Cornerstone, my focus has always been on fostering supportive environments where both children and caregivers can thrive. During the pandemic, our campus underwent a major transformation that challenged every aspect of our leadership and strengthened our community partnerships. With a bachelor’s degree and a CDA in Early Childhood, I continue to build upon the lessons and inspiration of mentors who taught me to lead with heart and integrity. One of my proudest moments was when Cornerstone received the Better Business Bureau’s High Ethics Award—a recognition that reflects the dedication, compassion, and ethical commitment of our entire team.

The best career advice I’ve ever received is that education is the root of every profession. That simple truth continues to guide me in everything I do. It reminds me that when we advocate for educators, we’re not just supporting a profession—we’re investing in the future. Every field, every innovation, and every leader begins with a strong educational foundation, and that’s why I’m passionate about empowering those who make learning possible.

My advice to young women entering the education field is to stay grounded in your purpose and never take things too personally. Growth often comes through challenges, and patience and empathy will be your greatest strengths. Remember—you can’t pour from an empty cup. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential. When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to care for others and lead with clarity and compassion. Leadership, in my experience, is rooted in understanding, not control. It’s about connecting with people first and guiding them with empathy, communication, and teamwork. When you lead from the heart and stay true to your purpose, you not only inspire others but also create spaces where everyone can grow and thrive together.

One of the biggest challenges in early childhood education today is the intersection between social systems and educational stability. During recent events like the government shutdown and its ripple effects on SNAP programs, I witnessed how deeply these issues affect families and, in turn, the learning environment. These experiences have strengthened my commitment to advocacy—ensuring that families don’t just survive, but truly have the resources and support to thrive. Staffing shortages, caregiver burnout, and the persistent undervaluation of early educators remain ongoing challenges. The demands of this field are immense, and maintaining balance is often difficult. Caregivers give so much of themselves that self-care can easily fall by the wayside. I’ve seen it firsthand—whether stepping into an infant room that’s short-staffed or mentoring new educators learning how to manage challenges without losing heart. I often remind my team that our work is like driving a school bus: educators steer, administrators navigate, and together we guide each child safely forward. Despite the challenges, there’s incredible opportunity in this field—to elevate the profession, strengthen advocacy, and create systems that support both educators and families in meaningful, lasting ways.

The values that guide me—both in my work and in my personal life—are rooted in community, perseverance, and adaptability. Growing up as one of ten children taught me the importance of working together, supporting one another, and finding strength in shared purpose. Moving from a rural community to the city reinforced the need to adapt and grow through change, while living on a small farm today keeps me grounded and connected to the simplicity and balance that nature provides. In my professional life, I hold deep respect for early education as one of the most impactful yet often undervalued professions. Quality early learning has the power to transform lives—it reduces dropout rates, nurtures social-emotional skills, and lays the foundation for lifelong success. I see my role not just as an educator or administrator, but as an advocate for the potential that every child and caregiver holds. At the heart of my work is a commitment to helping children become kind, confident, and courageous. These qualities, I believe, shape not only strong students but compassionate citizens—individuals who will go on to build communities grounded in empathy, understanding, and hope.