2024 Flaeyc
Member Awards
Annually, FLAEYC members put forth nominations for their peers to receive our prestigious awards. These distinguished individuals will be honored and celebrated at the FLAEYC Member Awards Ceremony on Friday, October 18th, at the Omni Orlando Resort at Championsgate.
Congratulations to this year's winners!
Children’s Champion
The Children's Champion Award is selected by the FLAEYC president and is awarded to an individual from across the state who advances and supports children's issues. This prestigious recognition honors their exceptional contribution to advocating for and improving the lives of children throughout Florida.
“Alfred has been at the forefront of championing early learning within the business community, emphasizing that early education is not just a children's issue, but a critical business issue as well. By adeptly combining these two worlds in his advocacy efforts, he has proven to be a tireless leader and educator on the matter.Alfred is widely recognized as the most vital connector between early childhood education advocacy and the business community.”
Alfred Sanchez
Nominated by Raquel Munnariz Diaz, FLAEYC President
Barbara Fink Leadership Award
This honor is awarded to members who have demonstrated superior and outstanding leadership over their career. This award honors the excellent leadership of Mrs. Barbara Fink who served as the first President of FACUS in 1956 and as President of SACUS in 1960-62.
“As a respected colleague and advocate for quality early childhood programs, Lee embodies the qualities and values that make a profound difference in the lives of children and their families. I have witnessed firsthand her unwavering passion for ensuring that every child receives the best possible start in life. Whether it's through her innovative partnerships with community agencies, or her tireless advocacy. Lee focuses on providing the resources, support services and innovative programs so children have access to the programs they need to survive.”
K. Lee Tirpak
Nominated by Joan Mendel
Advocate of the Year
This honor is given to a member dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for young children and their families, as well as advocating for their support at local, state, or national levels.
"Paola's devotion for advocacy, diversity, innovation, and alliance for the rights of children— has led her path to a life-long journey of pedagogical research. Her primary goal is to equip teachers and children with skill sets and mindsets that are essential in a world of innovation through the practice of developmentally appropriate practices, documentation, reflection, and transformation."
Paola Lopez
Nominated by Dr. Walter Drew
Early Educator of the Year
FLAEYC and the Children's Movement have established this award to recognize a Florida educator, whether center-based or from a family childcare home, who demonstrates excellence in the field of Early Childhood Education.
“Janibel is more than just a teacher; she is an inspiration to her students, their families and her colleagues. Her commitment to ensuring that every child in her care thrives is truly commendable. Janibel’s passion for early childhood education radiates through her work and her ability to create engaging nurturing and developmentally appropriate learning environments is unparalleled.”
Janibel Torres
Nominated by Amber Binford
Local Leaders
The recipients of this award are chapter leaders dedicated to their work and who inspire others to excel in the field of early childhood education.
"Her remarkable enthusiasm and commitment to play in the lives of children and adults has propelled the FLAEYC PLAY Chapter to new accomplishments. Her outstanding leadership with PLAY Chapter and the PLAY Space has inspired the creation of local "Play Committees" and local “Play Spaces” that help to build the infrastructure that ensures high-quality play in classroom practice."
Juelie Perry Schwartz
Nominated by Dr. Walter Drew
Local Leaders
The recipients of this award are chapter leaders dedicated to their work and who inspire others to excel in the field of early childhood education.
"Camille has served as an exemplary leader within her local Chapter. Through her role as Vice President of Programs, she has played a pivotal role in organizing events, advocating for policy changes, and fostering a sense of community among members. Camille exemplifies the qualities of a true leader in the field of early childhood education. Her dedication, passion, and leadership have left an indelible mark on FLAEYC, Pin Chap and the broader early childhood community."
Camille Mendez
Nominated by Angela Tufts, Past FLAEYC President