Professor recognized as a leading Latina in local education

Child Development and Family Studies Professor Vivian Correa was one of four Latina women recognized this spring for contributions to education at the Inaugural Cesar Chavez Contemplation Breakfast.

The event brought educators, administrators and community leaders together to reflect on the legacy of Chavez, the Latino civil rights leader known for his work advocating for the rights of farm workers. The breakfast was hosted by the organization Leadership in the Clouds.

“The award highlights the years of research I’ve conducted on supporting young Latino children and their families. Being Latina has not only influenced my research but also my teaching and service,” Correa said. She added she hopes to serve as a role model for Latina young women starting their careers in education.

In addition to Dr. Correa, also honored were:

• Dr. Edith Vallardes-McElroy, dean of Levine Campus, Central Piedmont Community College
• Dr. Magdalena Maiz-Pena, professor, Hispanic and Latin American Studies, Davidson College
• Dr. Rosanna Saladin-Subero, assistant director of community partnership and family engagement, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools

The morning also featured a keynote presentation by Dr. Gloria Bonilla-Santiago, a professor at Rutgers University and national commentator on issues of education and community development.

In her remarks at the event, Correa reflected on the importance of investing in early childhood education.

“The research on the brain and early development is clear: 90% of critical brain development happens in the first five years of life,” she said. Unfortunately, according to Correa, many Latino children enter school behind their non-Latino counterparts.

“Our community has made great strides in supporting young children and their families, but more needs to be done!” she argued, urging attendees to start early in efforts to improve education for all children in Charlotte and especially Latinos.