March 27, 2025
In celebration of Women’s History Month and this year’s theme — Moving Forward Together! Women Educating & Inspiring Generations — First 5 LA is shining a spotlight on remarkable women leading the way in early childhood education (ECE). In this bio and Q&A that follows, Dr. Denise Kennedy shares her journey, the lessons she has learned, and her vision for a more inclusive, inspiring future for the next generation
Dr. Denise Kennedy is Chair of the Early Childhood Studies Department at California State Polytechnic University, Pomona. She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology and Marriage and Family Therapy and a Ph.D. in Human and Community Development from the University of Illinois. She completed a postdoctoral research fellowship at the University of Michigan in Developmental Psychology and contributed to the Family Transitions Study (FTS), a longitudinal research project conducted by the University of Michigan’s Department of Psychology.
Dr. Kennedy’s research centers on enhancing the social and emotional development of children and families in the context of sibling, parent-child, and marital relationships, with particular attention to how children learn to regulate emotions. The scope of her research has expanded recently to focus on parents’ and teachers’ efficacy— the belief that they will be able to work successfully with children. New research also includes dual language learner competencies and student sense of belonging.
Q & A
What inspires you as a woman educator, mentor and leader?
I am first inspired by the mentors that have led me to where I am now. As an educator in higher education the students we serve inspire me every day. Their passion for becoming a teacher is palpable and makes our work worthwhile. The children and families that we serve in the community are also inspiring. Having mentors is so important and learning from my own has helped me to become a mentor to others. Paying it forward is a cycle we ascribe to in Early Childhood Education.
Over your career of shaping future early educators, how do you inspire them to be the best educators they can be?
Inspiring students to become the best educators they can be is our goal in Early Childhood Studies. We prepare teachers to teach children from 0-8 years old. First, we encourage all students in our program to bring their whole genuine selves to the classroom. Valuing lived experiences, home language, culture, and race are important and should be valued as teachers of children.
What traits do you believe are most essential for an early educator to have to inspire their young students?
Patience, empathy, understanding of brain development and what children are capable of at different ages. Part of this is developmentally appropriate practices. We want teachers who can pivot and use teachable moments in the classroom. Creating a safe space for children is key.
You have a unique role in influencing future generations. If you could name one quality you’d like for young children in an early education setting to leave with, what would it be and why?
This is a tough one especially in today’s climate. I would LOVE children to have a love of learning, be full of curiosity and inquiry and look forward to going to school. Learning is a right, yet some children are more privileged than others. Closing that gap is why it is so important to do what we do.
