Elegidos en 2026
El equipo
Debbie Shultz
Secretary
Amanda Greenfield
Conference Co-Chair
Tearsa Leeming-Turner
Public Relations
Darshani Abeyrathna
Student Representative
Debbie lleva más de 24 años trabajando en Educación Infantil. Actualmente es miembro de la junta directiva de la Fundación Southern Hills Outreach y del Consejo Directivo de la Iglesia Metodista Unida de Southern Hills. Además, es especialista en PDS del Consejo de Reconocimiento Profesional de la CDA y educadora del CECPD.
With nearly 20 years of experience in the field of early childhood education, serving in a variety of roles that reflect her commitment to supporting children, families, and educators. She began her career as a Family Child Care Home Provider and went on to serve as a Family Advocate for Head Start and as a Special Education Paraprofessional in the public school system. The majority of her professional experience has been within Military Child and Youth Programs, where she has held leadership positions, including Child Development Center Director for the United States Air Force and School-Age Program Assistant Director for the United States Army. Currently, Ms. Greenfield serves as an adjunct instructor at Oklahoma State University–Oklahoma City and as Director of the Scholars for Excellence in Child Care program at Redlands Community College. She holds a Master of Science in Family and Child Studies with a specialization in Infant Child Specialist from the University of Central Oklahoma.
Con una sólida formación en liderazgo y planificación de eventos, confío en mi capacidad para ser un copresidente de la Conferencia eficaz y comprometido. Cuento con experiencia práctica en la organización de una amplia gama de eventos, incluyendo la programación mensual en la Escuela Primrose de Midtown, donde apoyé la planificación y ejecución de actividades familiares y comunitarias. También desempeñé un papel clave en la organización de nuestra recaudación de fondos anual, coordinando la logística, gestionando la comunicación y contribuyendo al éxito del evento. Además, he dirigido recaudaciones de fondos y banquetes de la Sociedad Nacional de Honor, supervisando los detalles del evento de principio a fin y colaborando con los miembros del equipo para alcanzar los objetivos de recaudación de fondos y participación. Estos roles han fortalecido mi capacidad para gestionar múltiples factores, mantenerme organizado bajo presión y crear eventos significativos, inclusivos e impactantes. Aporto un espíritu colaborativo, una gran atención al detalle y un profundo compromiso con la creación de experiencias significativas que reflejen las necesidades y los valores de nuestra comunidad. Como copresidente, contribuiré a que esta conferencia se desarrolle sin contratiempos, creando un espacio para la inspiración, la conexión y el crecimiento.
Darshani is interested in becoming an impactful educator for young children because her journey as a teacher, journalist, researcher, and children’s book writer has shown her how storytelling, education, and advocacy can shape a child’s world. With over a decade of experience working with children and educators, she has seen firsthand how early experiences influence identity, creativity, and confidence. Her debut children’s book was nominated as one of the best children’s books at the 2022 State Literary Awards, which further deepened her commitment to using literature as a tool for empathy and learning.
Dr. Marla Pankratz
President Elect
Andrew Norton
Treasurer
Jana Cornelius
Accreditation Advisory Chair
Sarah Albahadily
SECA Representative
Marla se postula a la presidencia electa y actualmente preside la Conferencia, donde ha desempeñado un papel clave en la organización de oportunidades de desarrollo profesional y networking para educadores de la primera infancia. Recientemente obtuvo su doctorado en Educación Temprana en julio de 2025, lo que refleja su compromiso con la formación continua y su experiencia en el campo. Con pasión por apoyar a educadores y niños, Marla aspira a liderar iniciativas que fortalezcan el desarrollo profesional, la defensa y la participación comunitaria en la comunidad de la educación de la primera infancia. Sus conocimientos, habilidades de liderazgo y dedicación la posicionan para generar un impacto significativo como presidenta electa.
Jana is running for Accreditation Advisory Chair, bringing her extensive experience and commitment to supporting quality Early Childhood Education. In 2025, she hosted two accreditation workshops for Family Child Care Homes and Centers, demonstrating her dedication to helping programs achieve and maintain high standards. With more than 35 years of experience in the field, Jana has worked in public schools, NAEYC-accredited early childhood organizations, and state agencies. She holds a B.S. in Early Childhood Education, a B.S. in Elementary Special Education with a concentration in Mild and Moderate Disabilities and Speech Impairments, and an M.Ed. in Education Administration. Her expertise and leadership make her a valuable resource and mentor in the early childhood community.
Sarah is running for her second term as SECA Representative and is eager to continue strengthening connections and advocating for Early Childhood Education. She has served as Conference Chair and helped organize key events, including the SECA Leadership Summit tour, the OKAEYC Conference, and the 2025 Awards Banquet. With a background in both teaching and school administration, Sarah has many years of experience in education. She is passionate about mentoring teachers and staff, equipping them to better support children and families. Known for her leadership, energy, and strong ethical standards, she is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the communities she serves.
Andrew is applying for the position of Treasurer and brings over a decade of experience in early care and education, as well as IT and facilities management. He currently serves as Senior Director of IT and Facilities at Sunbeam Family Services in Oklahoma City, where he focuses on streamlining operations and enhancing service delivery. Previously, Andrew worked with the State of Oklahoma and in child development, gaining valuable expertise in systems integration and policy. He holds a degree in Human Environmental Sciences from the University of Central Oklahoma and has served on various committees and boards in the nonprofit sector. His commitment to continuous improvement and community impact is evident in all aspects of his work.
