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In recognition of the exceptional service to Utah’s early childhood community, the Mary Olsen “Friend of Children” Award honors those who have demonstrated a commitment to advocacy for children and quality programming. This year, Dr. Teri Henke, associate professor in the child and family studies department stood out as a candidate for this prestigious award. 

Dr. Henke’s journey began in Georgia and Tennessee before she brought her expertise to Utah. At 91¶ÌÊÓƵ, she prepares future early childhood educators through the early childhood education (ECE) program and leads as chair of the Board of Directors for the 91¶ÌÊÓƵ Charter Academy. Since joining 91¶ÌÊÓƵ in 2013, she has been a driving force in program development and community outreach, securing accreditation from the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) for the ECE program, the only program in the state to do so. 

Dr. Henke’s advocacy extends far beyond the university setting, she is involved in various state organizations and committees, including the Ogden United Way Promised Neighborhood’s Prenatal to 3 sub-committee, the Utah Association for Education of Young Children (UAEYC), and the Early Childhood Utah Early Care and Education Subcommittee. Her advocacy work has taken her to several NAEYC Public Policy Forums, where she champions better compensation for early childhood educators and higher standards in early care and education.

This advocacy work enriches her role in the classroom by inspiring her students through courses that focus on community engagement and social responsibility. Her students undertake projects that involve writing to legislators, engaging with news outlets, and making advocacy presentations, equipping them with skills to effect change in the early childhood education landscape. 

Reflecting on her forthcoming retirement, Dr. Henke expressed gratitude for the recognition she has received stating, "as I get closer to retirement and what that means for me, I feel quite honored to have received this recognition and acknowledgment that children have been at the center of my life's work."

Dr. Teri Henke is a deserving recipient for the Mary Olsen “Friend of Children” Award. Her tireless efforts have made communities a better place for children to grow and learn, inspiring countless educators and advocates to support and uplift young children and their families. 

For those interested in learning more about the early childhood education program:

Visit /chfam/earlychildhoodeducation.html or contact Story Sutton, storymendez@weber.edu to learn more.