Teresa A. Byington, Ph.D., Professor, University of Nevada, Reno Extension Dr. Teresa A. Byington is a joyful Professor of Early Childhood Education at the University of Nevada, Reno. With over 20 years of experience as an educator, researcher, leader, and trainer across diverse educational sectors, she brings a wealth of knowledge and energy to her work. Teresa is the author of several books, including Find the Joyful Leader Within and Lose the Lecture: Engaging Approaches to Early Childhood Professional Learning, which focus on cultivating joyful leadership and dynamic professional learning practices. Her work celebrates the transformative power of joy in education and invites readers to reimagine how they can positively impact others.

Danielle C. Pertile, M.Ed., Early Childhood Education Coordinator, University of Nevada, Reno Extension Danielle Pertile is the Early Childhood Education Coordinator at the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, where she leads the Spiral Up Academy training and coaching program designed to support and uplift new professionals entering the field of early childhood education. With over 20 years of experience, Danielleâ (TM)s career has included roles as a family camp counselor, nanny, toddler and preschool classroom teacher, early intervention developmental specialist, and now, trainer and coach. She holds a bachelorâ (TM)s degree in early childhood education and a masterâ (TM)s degree in early childhood special education with an emphasis on infant/toddler development, both from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas.

Charmika Hansen, M.Ed., Early Childhood Education Coordinator, University of Nevada, Reno Extension Charmika â oeMika⠝ Hansen is an Early Childhood Education Coordinator with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension, where she has supported Nevadaâ (TM)s early childhood workforce through coaching, mentoring, and dynamic professional development. With over 20 years of direct experience as a teacher, center director, trainer, community specialist, and training designer, Mika is passionate about uplifting educators and improving the quality of care and education for young children across Nevada. In her current role, Mika specializes in developing high-quality training content for online platforms, in-person workshops, and virtual learning sessions. She holds a masterâ (TM)s degree in early childhood education and lives in Las Vegas with her two children, Tahoe and Sierra, and their goldendoodle, Jarvis. Mikaâ (TM)s greatest joy is empowering others to grow, thrive, and create spaces where everyone feels valued and uplifted.

Geraldine (Gigi) Wynn M.A. SPED., Early Childhood Education Coordinator, University of Nevada, Reno Extension Geraldine (Gigi) Wynn is an inspiring Early Childhood Education Coordinator at the University of Nevada, Reno, where she supports and motivates the early childhood workforce through professional development, strength-based coaching sessions, and mentorship. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked as an early childhood teacher, assistant director, center director, QRIS coach, early childhood coach, leader, and professional development trainer across the United States. Gigi has transitioned from student to candidate as she continues pursuing her PhD in Organizational Development and Leadership, with an emphasis on training and E- Learning. Her passion lies at the center of supporting people and is a beacon of light for all to be their best selves.