Igniting Change in Delaware

Advancing the CDA® through ECE Advocacy, Career Pathways, and Workforce Initiatives

The Early Childhood Innovation Center Leads Bold Conversation on CDA® and the Future of Early Childhood Workforce Development

On Wednesday September 10th, 2025, Delaware took the national stage and the message was clear:
We are leading the way in advancing early childhood education.

At the Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC) at Delaware State University, we hosted a landmark convening in partnership with the Council for Professional Recognition Tagged “Igniting Change in Delaware – Advancing the CDA® through ECE Advocacy, Career Pathways, and Workforce Initiatives”

This statewide convening brought together policymakers, higher education leaders, employers, and educators to align on one mission:
Strengthening Delaware’s early childhood workforce through the power of the CDA® credential.

Key Highlights from the event includes:

Sandra Kowalchek and Haley Brush of the Council for Professional Recognition delivered powerful updates including the launch of digital CDA® certificates, the first modernization of the credential in 50 years. They recognized Delaware as a shining star in the national CDA® landscape.

Representative Alonna Berry (District 20) shared a powerful message during her legislative remarks:
“By investing in educators, we strengthen families and build brighter futures for Delaware. Grateful to the Council for Professional Recognition and the Early Childhood Innovation Center at Delaware State University for leading this important work.”

Dr. Shelley Rouser, Chair of DSU’s Education Department, highlighted that ECIC-supported scholars in associate programs are maintaining an average GPA of 3.6, reflecting both academic strength and support systems in place.

Thanks to the advocacy and coordination led by the ECIC, three leading institutions — Wilmington University, Delaware State University, and Delaware Technical Community College now award up to 12 college credits for CDA credential holders, a key win in the state’s Credit for Prior Learning initiative.

Employers from New Castle, Sussex, and Kent counties highlighted the transformational impact of CDA®-trained staff in classrooms

The ECIC Ambassador Nya Farrow delivered an inspiring testimonial about earning her CDA® through the center and now pursuing her associate degree. In her words “The ECIC is designed for you to succeed and achieve your goals.”

This Is What Workforce Transformation Looks Like
This convening was more than a celebration. It was a clear demonstration of what is possible when policy, partnership, and purpose are aligned.

Thanks to every scholar, employer, legislator, higher education leader, and partner who made this day possible. Delaware is not just participating in the early childhood conversation-We are leading it

📷 View the full photo gallery: https://flic.kr/s/aHBqjCtNGX