Her Story
About Nancy
Nancy Villarreal, M.S., is a dedicated leader with over 27 years of experience championing family engagement and early childhood programs across Los Angeles. She currently serves as the Interim Executive Director at Parent Organization Network (PON), where she guides the organization through strategic leadership transitions while continuing her lifelong commitment to empowering families and strengthening communities. Nancy’s approach emphasizes strengths-based, culturally responsive practices that uplift parents and children alike.
Prior to her current role, Nancy held multiple leadership positions at the Los Angeles Education Partnership (LAEP) from 1998 to 2025. She oversaw Early Head Start programs in South Los Angeles, Inglewood, and Hawthorne, led county-wide childcare initiatives, and supported the Northeast Valley Best Start Community. Throughout her career, she has been deeply committed to mentoring new Early Head Start Directors through the UCLA-PMFO New Director Mentor Program and advancing parent leadership and advocacy, demonstrating her unwavering dedication to early childhood education.
Nancy holds a B.A. in Sociology and an M.S. in Counseling Psychology from Mount Saint Mary’s University. She is also a proud alumna of the UCLA Head Start Management Fellows Program and the DMH-UCLA Early Childhood Fellowship. Currently, she is pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership for Social Justice at Loyola Marymount University, with an anticipated graduation in 2028. Based in Downtown Los Angeles, Nancy enjoys beach walks, reading, and exploring podcasts, reflecting her curiosity and commitment to lifelong learning.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Nancy
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to the inspiration and support I receive from my two sons, my mother’s unwavering strength, My nephew & nieces and my sister’s guidance and encouragement.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve ever received is to “bring my own chair” if there isn’t one at the table for me—reminding me to create my own opportunities rather than waiting for them.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would advise young women entering my industry to surround themselves with people they trust and seek out mentors. Always stay curious, ask questions, and never leave a situation with any doubt.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field has been securing adequate funding. At the same time, a significant opportunity lies in the ability to continue learning and growing professionally.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that are most important to me in both my work and personal life are loyalty, gratitude, and integrity.
Join Influential Women and start making an impact. Register now.