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Cara Ciminillo
Executive Director at Trying Together
Professional Background
Cara Ciminillo is a dedicated and experienced Executive Director specializing in the education management sector. With an impressive track record of accomplishments in various esteemed organizations, Cara exemplifies leadership and commitment to enhancing educational opportunities and support systems for children and families. Presently, she serves as the Executive Director at Trying Together, a nonprofit organization focused on improving the quality of early childhood programs. Under her guidance, the organization facilitates innovative programming and advocacy efforts that make a significant difference in the community.
Prior to her current role, Cara held the position of Executive Director at the Pittsburgh Association for the Education of Young Children (PAEYC), where she led initiatives aimed at fostering quality education and professional development for educators in early childhood settings. Her tenure was marked by her adept handling of operations and her capability to build strong, supportive networks among educators, volunteers, and community members.
Before taking the helm at PAEYC, she served as the Interim Executive Director, showcasing her versatility and commitment to the organization. Additionally, Cara contributed her expertise as the Director of Operations, effectively overseeing the organization’s day-to-day functions and program management.
Cara has also built a robust foundation in nonprofit management through her role as the Executive Director at Longe Dominica, where she developed programs aimed at improving the educational landscape in underrepresented communities. Furthermore, her experience as a Project Manager at the Collaborative for Evaluation and Assessment Capacity (CEAC) enriched her expertise in program evaluation, ensuring that educational initiatives are both impactful and evidence-based. Her background as Program Director at Visions Service Adventures allowed her to fine-tune her skills in program development and intercultural communication, essential components for managing diverse educational settings.
Education and Achievements
Cara Ciminillo’s educational journey is grounded in a passion for understanding educational systems and advocating for their improvement. She holds a Master of Education (M.Ed.) in Administrative and Policy Studies from the prestigious University of Pittsburgh. This degree has equipped her with critical insights into educational policy, management, and the administrative structures that influence educational institutions. Cara's academic accomplishments showcase her commitment to lifelong learning and her desire to affect positive change in the education sector.
In addition to her Master’s degree, Cara earned a Bachelor of Arts in Ethnic Studies from Bowling Green State University. This educational background underscores her dedication to cultural competence and her understanding of the diverse needs within educational environments. Her training and studies in Ethnic Studies have profoundly influenced her approach to education management, resulting in a professional ethos that centers on inclusion, equity, and intercultural communication.
Skills and Competencies
Cara Ciminillo brings a wealth of skills that significantly contribute to her success as a leader in the nonprofit educational landscape. Among her key competencies are:
- Nonprofit Organizations: A deep understanding of the intricacies involved in leading and sustaining nonprofit initiatives, particularly within the realm of education.
- Intercultural Communication: Proficient in navigating diverse cultural landscapes, Cara leverages her communication skills to foster collaboration and inclusivity in her organizations.
- Program Evaluation: Experienced in assessing educational programs to gauge their effectiveness, making data-informed decisions that advance organizational goals.
- Volunteer Management: Recognizing the vital role volunteers play in nonprofit initiatives, Cara excels in recruiting and providing meaningful experiences for volunteers, enhancing community engagement and support.
- Public Speaking: A confident public speaker, Cara effectively articulates her vision and shares her knowledge in various forums, advocating passionately for educational reform and improvement in early childhood education.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Cara Ciminillo has been a notable force in the educational landscape, marked by numerous significant achievements:
- Leadership in Nonprofit Education Initiatives: As Executive Director at Trying Together, she has pioneered programs that enhance the quality of early childhood care and education, directly impacting the development of young children and their families.
- Impactful Leadership at PAEYC: Under her leadership, initiatives that supported educators and young learners flourished, contributing to significant advancements in early childhood education in the Pittsburgh area.
- Advocacy for Educational Equity: Cara has consistently championed the need for equitable educational opportunities, advocating for policy changes that support underserved communities in her previous roles.
- Effective Program Management at CEAC: Her contributions as Project Manager led to the successful evaluation and enhancement of various educational programs, ensuring they meet community needs and align with best practices in educational leadership.
- Development of Marketable Programs: Through her work in various roles, Cara has developed programs that resonate with stakeholders, leading to increased community support and funding for educational initiatives.
With a proven background and a relentless pursuit of excellence, Cara Ciminillo stands out as a leader committed to empowering children and families through high-quality educational experiences. Her journey reflects her dedication to fostering a positive change in the education sector, making her an indispensable asset to any organization focusing on early childhood education and nonprofit management.
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