Board Members

Gathering the Region’s Best Leaders

James Challey
Board Member

Vassar College Emeritus and Poughkeepsie Day Nursery

“I learned, from personal experience, how important quality daycare and early childhood education can be for kids AND for working parents.”

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Christa Hines
Board Member

Executive Director, Hudson River Housing

“The early years of a child’s life are incredibly critical as they serve as the foundation for a healthy and productive life. DAY ONE is a transformative leader in early childhood learning and an essential resource for our community. It is our responsibility as a community to ensure our children and families have the very best tools to thrive.”

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Jessie Laguerre
Board Member

“Early childhood education is an integral part of laying a strong foundation to the children in our community’s future. It is with honor that I serve on the board of Day One.”

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Monica Lee
Board Member

Education and Child Development Coordinator, Astor Services for Children and Families

“As an early childhood educator, I have seen how high-quality education in the early years provides children a strong foundation with which to thrive and flourish in school and in life. As a community, we owe it to our children to provide high-quality early childhood education to all families.”

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Wesley J. Lee
Board Member

Assistant Professor, Dutchess Community College

“I was blessed to coordinate the Poughkeepsie City School District Even Start Family Literacy program from 2000 until 2007. That program helped families improve their quality of life through literacy. Even Start was especially helpful in preparing infants and toddlers for success in school. It is with great joy that I serve on the board of DAY ONE, which will continue the very important work of preparing our babies for life long success.”

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Timmian Massie
Board Member

“Studies show children in early childhood education programs do better academically and socially throughout the remainder of their school years. That opportunity must be made available to all families. I’m honored to be part of Day One’s initiative to enhance access to this educational necessity.”

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Jeanne Wagner
Board Member

Executive Director, Child Care Council of Dutchess County

“United States public investment has focused on Pre-K and college, despite what research tells us. 85% of a baby’s brain develops before kindergarten. We need to invest in early education NOW. DAY ONE has the blueprint for doing just that. As a Board member, I’m proud and excited to be part of this ground-breaking initiative.”

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Marguerite Woodcock
Board Member

Assistant Professor, Dutchess Community College

“The foundation of all future learning is laid during early childhood, the building block years. DAY ONE is committed to establishing a strong infrastructure for our children, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

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