APSU’s Maddox-Vinson recognized as early childhood education advocate

Clarksville, TN – Lisa Maddox-Vinson has earned a reputation over the years as a dedicated advocate for educating young children. She currently works as a coordinator with the Tennessee Early Childhood Training Alliance (TECTA) at Austin Peay State University, and she is on the executive board for the Tennessee Association for the Education of Young Children (TAEYC).

Last month, her reputation caught up with her while she was attending the TAEYC State Conference in Chattanooga. At the meeting, Maddox-Vinson was named the association’s 2014 Outstanding Member. She received the most nominations in the history of this award.

“Lisa has served children and families in Tennessee in many ways,” Debbie Ferguson, TAEYC executive board member, said. “She has taught us the importance of being a life-long learner. She lives every moment to the fullest and has devoted her career to improving children’s lives.”

Maddox-Vinson is co-president, along with APSU TECTA coordinator Jennifer Jackson, of the Two Rivers AEYC in Clarksville. She is also serving her second term as Tennessee’s representative for the .

“She is passionate about promoting literacy for young children and she loves books,” Ferguson said. “Tennessee is fortunate to have Lisa working for all our children and families.”

TECTA is a statewide professional development system for people who are employed in licensed child care programs. The system provides tuition assistance to pay for courses that lead to a national credential, an associate degree, bachelor’s degree or master’s degree in early childhood.

APSU has hosted a TECTA site since 1998, and in that time, it has allowed hundreds of child care workers to earn credentials and degrees, all while fulfilling the Tennessee Department of Human Services’ required professional development hours.

For more information on Maddox-Vinson or the TECTA program at APSU, visit the website at www.apsu.edu/tecta.