Malkia Payton-Jackson

The National Head Start Association celebrates Women’s History Month by recognizing a few Head Start alumnae blazing trails and leaving indelible legacies in their communities. 

This Head Start Awareness Month, we’re celebrating the resilience and triumph of our Head Start alumni through a special addition zine.

Masada Ellis experienced Head Start as both a student and a parent, where he gained a deeper appreciation for the program’s depth and scale.

Churmell Mitchell navigated childhood trauma and homelessness to become a national speaker on fatherhood and leadership.

Head Start and Early Head Start gave Kaela Davison and her family the extra supports she they needed in times of crisis.

Head Start’s high quality education initiated the first leg of Dr. Shana Lachowicz’s education journey to self-sufficiency.

Head Start alumnus Duchesne Drew, president of Minnesota Public Radio, says his professional journeys started with Head Start.

Head Start alumnus Shane Dunn shares how his early experience in a diverse environment shaped his values of racial justice and equity.

Alumna Maryom McCloud, director of Finance for Lutheran Family Services, shares how Head Start shaped her educational and career path.