Meet Kimber Winchester: Executive Administrative Assistant at Early Learning Alliance

In this spotlight interview, we sit down with Kimber Winchester– a passionate advocate, seasoned administrator, and loving grandmother– whose personal journey fuels a deep commitment to supporting children and families. Kimber recently joined the Early Learning Alliance (ELA) as Executive Administrative Assistant, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to have her on board. We sat down with her to learn more about her journey and what she's most excited about.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a role in early childhood education and advocacy? My passion for early childhood education and advocacy is deeply personal. I entered the foster care system at age 10, along with my three younger siblings, and that experience shaped my deep love for children. I felt called to make a difference—especially for those who may not have a supportive environment. My journey has always fueled my desire to make a difference wherever I can.

Q: What drew you to the Early Learning Alliance specifically? Joining ELA and being part of a collaborative effort focused on supporting young children felt like a natural next step in my journey. Being in the same room with incredibly smart and passionate people who are working to create and provide services for families who might not otherwise have access is something I wanted to be part of.

Q: What excites you most about the work you'll be doing with the Early Learning Alliance? What I’m most excited about working with the Early Learning Alliance is getting to work with people who are genuinely making a difference for kids and families.

Q: Can you share a little about your career path before joining the team? I started babysitting every weekend as a preteen and later taught at a private preschool while attending school. Once my children reached junior high, I transitioned into the medical tech industry, where I supported the executive team and managed both the accounting and HR departments. After more than 20 years, I decided it was time to move back to a career that’s more centered around children.

Q: How do you see your role supporting the mission of the Alliance? I hope to bring my past professional background in working closely with senior leadership and managing key operational areas to help move the work of ELA and its partners forward. I’m excited to contribute in ways that support the Alliance’s mission.

Q: What are you passionate about outside of work? Outside of work, I love spending time with my three grown children and their families—including my four wonderful grandkids. I also enjoy taking care of my three horses, two of which are rescues, and hanging out with family on our ranch. In addition, my daughter and I started a nonprofit children’s clothes closet in Fannin County. We saw a real need for a place where low-income families, those facing financial struggles, or foster parents with emergency placements could come and receive FREE clothing and necessities within our community. It’s been incredibly rewarding to support families in this way.

Q: What's a favorite quote or saying you live by? "Be the change that you wish to see in the world" - it’s inspired by Gandhi’s philosophy, but not a verbatim quote, but still, how I try to live my life!

Kimber’s lived experience, administrative skill, and heartfelt leadership embody everything ELA stands for. We’re honored to have her voice, her vision, and her vibrant spirit on the team!