“The strength of this year’s applicant pool reflects a growing urgency across Colorado to reimagine opportunities for young children and families, and a readiness to lead across systems,” said Laura Carlson, Vice President of Programs. “This cohort distinguished itself through clarity of purpose and commitment to collaboration. We look forward to seeing their accomplishments over the next nine months and the lasting impact of their leadership.”
Eighty-two applicants from 16 Colorado counties applied, reflecting strong statewide demand and growing engagement across the early childhood ecosystem. A selection committee from the Buell Early Childhood Leaders Network, Buell Foundation staff, and early childhood leaders statewide conducted 33 in-depth interviews to select this year’s fellows. From early childhood education to public administration, research to housing innovation, and community advocacy to health partnerships, this cohort represents the rare intersection of roles needed to drive meaningful change in early childhood systems—not in silos, but together.
