About

Patrice Jones-Cornish currently serves as the Child Development Associate (CDA®) Navigator at the Early Childhood Innovation Center (ECIC) at Delaware State University. She brings more than 20 years of experience working with children from birth to age five and is passionate about supporting early childhood professionals as they advance their education, strengthen their professional practice, and achieve their career goals.

As a former CDA® credential holder, Patrice understands firsthand the challenges that can come with navigating the CDA® process. She experienced her own CDA® journey and had to navigate the process independently, learning how to overcome barriers and identify the resources needed to successfully earn her credential. Her personal experience now fuels her commitment to paying it forward by supporting Delaware’s early childhood workforce. Through her role as a CDA® Navigator, she helps educators navigate the credentialing process, break down barriers, access resources, and overcome challenges that may stand in the way of their professional goals.

Patrice provides individualized guidance and support to early childhood educators pursuing their CDA® credential. She is committed to expanding access to professional development and higher education while helping educators navigate the systems, resources, and opportunities necessary to advance in the early childhood field.

A proud DE RISE Scholar, Patrice earned her Bachelor of Science in Human Services with a concentration in Early Childhood Administration from Springfield College in December 2023, graduating magna cum laude. She previously served as the 2024–2025 ECIC DE RISE Bachelor’s Ambassador, using her experience as a scholar to encourage others to pursue higher education and professional growth.

Beyond her professional work in early childhood education, Patrice is deeply committed to community service, particularly supporting individuals and families experiencing homelessness. Through her professional and community work, she strives to create meaningful opportunities, remove barriers, strengthen communities, and make a positive and lasting impact on the lives of children, families, and Delaware’s early childhood workforce.