FIRST 8 YEARS SPEAKER SERIES
The First 8 Years Speaker Series was launched in 2021 to help increase awareness about the importance of early learning and provide valuable tools and insights that educators and advocates can use to improve outcomes for children. This series brings local, regional, and national experts together to discuss important themes, research, and cutting-edge early childhood topics, and provide unique context on their place in the Memphis community.
While we are proud to present the First 8 Years Speaker Series at no cost for attendees, we appreciate donations to help us continue to bring dynamic speakers to Memphis for future events. Thank you!
-
Keynote: Dr. Chandra Ghosh Ippen
Sponsor: Early Success Coalition
Topic: The importance of investing in early childhood development and why creating a strong equitable system is important for our children and families
*Recording available only to registrants for this session at the speaker’s request
-
Keynote - Dr. Iheoma U. Iruka
Topic: The importance of investing in early childhood development and why creating a strong equitable system is important for our children and families
Previous Events
Upcoming Events
Please subscribe to our newsletter to be the first to hear about our next Speaker Series event.
-
Date: 8/17/2023
Presenters: Dr. Deborah Reed, Sonja Randall, and Grandma Joyce
Topic: How to Teach Your Child to Read
-
Date: January 26, 2023
Keynote: Dr. Clinton Boyd, Jr.
Sponsor: 100 Black Men of Memphis
Topic: Dr. Boyd, Jr. will discuss Fathers and School Readiness: How Fathers’ Engagement Improves Children’s Success.
*Event was not recorded.
-
Date: 4/19/2023
Keynote: Dr. Walter Gilliam
Topic: The impact of implicit bias and COVID-19 in relation to early care and education settings.
*Recording only available to registrants.
-
Date: 8/17/2023
Keynote: Dr. Monica McLemore
Topic: Early Childhood Education
-
Date: 06/03/2025
Speakers: Carmen Rosa Noroña, Ivys Fernández-Pastrana
Topic: Supporting Immigrant Families and Educators
This virtual discussion, "Lovin’ on Our Babies: Supporting Immigrant Families and Educators," focused on the well-being of young children in immigrant communities.
This event was not recorded.
Local Immigrant/Refugee Organizations: ipsmemphis.com/immigration