For Immediate Release
November 12, 2015

Suffolk's Calderon Named Master Leader as Children's Advocate

Vickie Calderon, Director of Suffolk County Community College’s Kids’ Cottage on the Michael J. Grant Campus has been named a Master Leader by Exchange Magazine.

Exchange magazine’s November/December 2015 issue features Master Leaders in the field of Early Care and Education: 49 Exceptional Master Leaders and 38 Master Leaders are pictured and their stories told in the cover feature.

“ I am honored to be selected as one of the 49 Exceptional Master Leaders nationally and internationally and to be included in such an esteemed group of educators that has had such a positive impact on so many children  and families around the world,” Calderon said.

Master Leaders were reviewed on the following criteria:
 
Leadership — Experienced professionals (over age 45) who have proven themselves as able leaders in their organization, and who are taking leadership in building the profession and advocating for children and families at the local, state, and/or national levels.
 
Roles — Master Leaders include organization managers, advocates, trainers, writers, researchers, counselors, public officials, policy makers — anyone who has an impactful career trajectory serving young children, families, and early childhood professionals.
 
Knowledge Base — Professionals who show a deep understanding of early childhood research, principles and practices, including addressing diversity and equity.
 
Spirit — Professionals demonstrating the ability to work collaboratively, to build networks around key issues, and to demonstrate perseverance in pursuing difficult objectives.

Earlier this year, Calderon was named the 2015 Director of the Year by the National Coalition for Campus Children’s Centers (NCCCC).

“Vickie is a passionate, accomplished child care advocate whose leadership has positively impacted our students and College,” said Suffolk County Community College President Dr. Shaun L. McKay.

Calderon came to Suffolk County Community College with an impressive resume and experience. She worked as Director of the Buffalo State College Child Care Center and later the University at Buffalo Child Care Center.  Calderon 12 years at Erie Community College City Campus Child Development Center where she initiated the only State University of New York Evening Campus Child Care program for children aged six weeks to 12 years old.

Calderon earned a B.A. in Early Childhood Education from Manhattanville College, and completed her M.Ed from the University at Buffalo.