Meet the 2022 Conference Keynote Speakers

Evelyn Moore & Louise Derman-Sparks

This year marks the 60th anniversary of the groundbreaking HighScope Perry Preschool Study project launch. To recognize its significant impact on the early childhood education industry, two of the original classroom educators, Evelyn Moore and Louise Derman-Sparks, will share the experience, reach, and legacy of the study, as well as lessons learned over long careers as researchers and educators in the early childhood classroom, during the opening keynote session. Both educators have devoted their lives to improving outcomes for children in underserved communities.

Moderated by: Jennifer Keys Adair, PhD

Professor of Early Childhood Education, University of Texas at Austin
Dr. Jennifer Keys Adair is Associate Professor of Curriculum & Instruction and Director of the Agency and Young Children Research Collective at University of Texas at Austin. She is a cultural anthropologist and former preschool teacher who works with parents, teachers, and young children to challenge white-centered institutions and racist “scientific” ideas. She is a co-author of Segregation by Experience: Agency, Racism, and Learning in the Early Grades.

Sonia Manzano

Sonia Manzano, best known for playing the character Maria on Sesame Street and recognized as one of the “25 Greatest Latino Role Models Ever,” will share her inspirational life story, focusing on the perseverance and courage that eventually led her to a role in educational and television history that would impact millions of adults and children alike.

Bruce D. Perry, M.D., Ph.D.

Professor, bestselling author, and groundbreaking clinical neuroscience researcher, Dr. Bruce Perry’s keynote will focus on his latest book, coauthored with Oprah Winfrey: What Happened to You? Conversations on Trauma, Resilience, and Healing.