(Stillwater, OK) – On Friday, Oklahoma State University Center for Family Resilience and the Healthy Children Healthy Communities (HCHC) organization co-hosted a multi-component summit to include the Raising Resilience Series, titled "Impact of Early Care and Education on Economic Development," presentation, an open-forum, and panel discussion. Information, conversations, and statistics reflected a shared local concern, that is also hitting many cities nationwide: future economic success depends in part on the strength of early childhood systems.
Featured speakers included AJ Griffin, Ed.D., CEO of the Potts Family Foundation, and Rob Grunewald, Economics and Public Policy Consultant. Both brought a wealth of expertise and data-driven insight to the sessions, illustrating the direct ties between public policy, access to early learning opportunities, and the long-term health of the local and state economies.
The discussions made it clear that access to high-quality, affordable childcare is essential not only for the development of young children but also for enabling parents to fully participate in the workforce. Without a reliable childcare infrastructure, businesses suffer from labor shortages, and working families face difficult choices that can hinder economic stability and upward mobility.
“Early care and education are foundational to economic resilience,” Dr. Griffin said. “Sound policy decisions in this area are investments that yield long-term returns through a stronger, more prepared workforce and healthier communities.”
Rob Grunewald emphasized how data supports these claims, detailing the positive outcomes communities experience when early childhood education is prioritized. He noted that early investments in child development often result in higher graduation rates, increased job readiness, and reduced reliance on social services — all contributing to a more robust economy.
The event featured in-depth presentations followed by a panel discussion, where attendees engaged in dialogue about the need for enhanced childcare infrastructure in Stillwater and surrounding areas.
The conversations reflected a shared recognition, and one that is not only a local concern, but also hitting many cities nationwide: that future economic success depends in part on the strength of its early childhood systems.
The panel portion of the summit was moderated by Alane Zannotti, CEO of the Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, whose leadership helped guide a productive discussion regarding the lack of early care and education effects on the Stillwater workforce – concerns with recruitment and retention and impacts to economic stability of a community. Panelists included Dr Elizabeth Ging, Edmond Public Schools Early Childhood Administrator; Ann Rosales, Norman Public Schools Director of Elementary Teaching and Learning; and Lauren Liebmann, Hillcrest Medical Center Administrator.
Healthy Children Healthy Communities in Stillwater includes representation from Oklahoma State University Center for Family Resilience, City of Stillwater, Lion’s Meadows of Hope, Payne County Health Department, Resilient Payne County, the Early Childhood Coalition, Our Daily Bread, Department of Human Services, Stillwater Chamber of Commerce, Meridian Technology Center, YMCA, Stillwater Public Schools, Oklahoma Association of Infant Mental Health, Head Start, and District 34 State Representative.
HCHC efforts are focused on serving as a catalyst for meaningful dialogue and action, driving forward-thinking approaches to child well-being, family support, and community economic development.
For additional information and to get involved in future events, please email Healthy Children Healthy Communities at hchccpc@gmail.com.
