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The Carole Robertson Center’s staff is comprised of professionals from a range of disciplines, which include education, child development, social work, and youth development.

Management and direct service staff include leaders in community-, city-, and state-wide initiatives. Teachers have received a Kohl McCormick Early Childhood Teaching Award, CYS Kendall College Scholarships, and a North Lawndale Spirit of Youth Development Award. Our Chief Executive Officer was honored as Executive of the Year by the United Way of Metropolitan Chicago in 2002. Staff work collaboratively through an interdisciplinary approach to relation-based practice to best meet the needs of those we serve. Staff are committed to lifelong learning with at least half of teachers in school working towards advanced degrees and certification at any given time. Best practices, new standards, and emerging research are incorporated into children’s care and education.

Gail Nelson, Chief Executive Officer

Gail Nelson has served as Chief Executive Officer of the Carole Robertson Center for Learning since 1988. Prior to this appointment, she served seven years as the Associate/Administrative Director. Read more>

Staff List

Gail Nelson

Chief Executive Officer
312.243.7300, ext. 219

Cerathel Burnett

Director of Curriculum Initiatives and Professional Education
773.521.1600, ext. 146

Leslie Janes

Director of Program Development and Quality Assurance
312.243.7300, ext. 227

Julie Fisher

Chief Financial Officer
312.243.7300, ext. 247

Kathy Kloppenburg

Director of Community Resources and Support
773.521.1600, ext. 145

Jennifer Leigh

Director of Resource Development
312.243.7300, ext. 228

Carol Merrill

Director of Administrative Operations
312.243.7300, ext. 221

Vivian Miller

Director of Human Resources
312.243.7300, ext. 224

Ruby Walker

Director of Program Operations
773.521.1600, ext. 126

Cass Wolfe

Director of Curriculum and Staff Development
773.522.8400, ext. 24