Julie joined the APC staff in August of 2013 as the Special Projects Coordinator and became the Early Language and Literacy Director in 2021. She earned a Bachelor’s degree from Auburn University in Human Development & Family Studies and a Master’s degree from Louisiana State University – Shreveport in Human Services/Nonprofit Administration. Julie has over 15 years experience in early care and education and non-profit organizations. Prior to working with the APC, Julie served as the Early Childhood Programs Director for the North Texas Area United Way. In this position, Julie developed and coordinated all initiatives surrounding the Born Learning campaign. She also secured funds to allow Wichita County to become the first county in the state of Texas to replicate Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library. Prior to her work in Texas, Julie served as the Community Services Director for the Partnership for Children of Wayne County, North Carolina (Smart Start). In this position, Julie worked closely with North Carolina’s Smart Start headquarters to promote awareness of the Partnership for Children’s mission, vision, strategies and activities.