Sarah Corley, Director of the LSUA Children’s Center, was named the Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year, earning statewide recognition for her leadership, commitment to young learners, and work supporting children, educators, and families.
The Louisiana Department of Education, in collaboration with Dream Teachers, presented the honor as part of its annual celebration of Louisiana’s outstanding educators this summer. The Early Childhood Leader of the Year award recognizes directors and leaders who have demonstrated excellence in advancing early childhood education and creating environments where children can build the foundation for long-term academic success.
Corley was selected for the statewide honor after being named one of five finalists in April. With five years of experience in early childhood education, she has centered her work on the belief that “intentional play turns into foundational learning,” creating safe, nurturing environments where children learn through exploration while educators and families work together to support their development.
As Director of the LSUA Children’s Center, Corley leads a program that serves an important dual role for the university. The center provides high-quality early childhood education for young learners while giving LSUA students, faculty, and staff access to dependable childcare on campus. By helping parents balance education, careers, and family responsibilities, the Children’s Center has become an important part of the support system that allows members of the LSUA community to succeed.
“Sarah is the rare professional who successfully balances the business, leadership, and educational demands of early childhood programming with authenticity and heart,” said LSUA Vice Chancellor for Student Engagement & Enrollment Abbey Bain, Ph.D. “LSUA is fortunate to have her, and I am personally grateful for the lasting impact she has had on my family and on our university community. She is an inspiration, a leader, and a true advocate for early childhood education.”
Corley’s path into early childhood education began in elementary education before she found what she describes as a calling to work with children during their earliest years of development. In addition to creating meaningful learning experiences for children, her leadership has focused on empowering early childhood educators and developing strong partnerships with families, recognizing that each plays an essential role in preparing children for what comes next.
The statewide honor also highlights the broader impact of the LSUA Children’s Center on campus. For student parents, access to childcare can make the difference between continuing their education and putting a degree on hold. For faculty and staff, the center provides a trusted resource that allows them to remain engaged in their work while their children learn just steps away.
Corley will continue leading the LSUA Children’s Center as it serves children and families across the university community, putting the same approach recognized by the Louisiana Early Childhood Leader of the Year award into practice each day. Through intentional early learning and accessible on-campus childcare, the center will continue helping young children prepare for school while giving LSUA parents the support they need to pursue their own educational and professional goals.
Written by Adam Lord
Photo credit – Mary Helen Downey | Rapides Parish School Board