Project Celebrate!

Research demonstrates the lasting impact of those who understand and nurture the social emotional health of very young children, recognizing this is the foundation all other development will be built upon. Project Celebrate! highlights those who are inspiring, guiding, and nurturing healthy social and emotional development in a young child. These inspirational stories shine a light on the wonderful impact early childhood West Virginia professionals are making on families all over the state. The current Project Celebrate! campaign ended May 31. Opportunities for highlighting additional professionals will occur in October.

Tijuana Flint

Administrative Assistant

Tijuana always greets families and guides them to the correct case manager. By answering questions for families, Tijuana is able to ease the stress of understanding how Connect works. Tijuana treats every individual with utmost respect, and guides them to the fantastic Connect waiting room that is children oriented.

Sandra Justice

Home Visitor

Sandra has worked as a Home Visitor for 14 years and loves home visiting! Sandra enjoys working with young families and supports families by listening, observing children, and providing resources to help them with whatever is going on in their lives. She understands that many families want to learn about child development, soaking in all that is shared with them and then using the information to the best of their knowledge. She also enjoys learning from the families and children and the shared respect that is developed.

Jackie Newson

Division Director, Department of Health

Jackie has worked in the Department of Health for a very long time, she has seen many changes over the years. She is a visionary person and embodies the work in early childhood, not only for the child but the family as a whole, she has brought so many wonderful things to our state. She is kind in all aspects of her work and her life, she embodies a strength-based approach and embodies the parallel process in her work with everyone. She is an unsung hero and always gives credit to others. I am nominating her because I believe Jackie deserves recognition for her dedicated and tireless work for children, families, and programs across the entire state.