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Janie Huddleston

National Director, Safe Babies and Early Childhood Systems
Collaboration is the key to transforming early childhood systems and creating brighter futures for families. We know that parents are our strongest allies—by giving them the opportunity to lead and share their powerful stories, we bring light to a more compassionate, collaborative approach. Together, we can uplift children, support families, and create lasting change that transforms lives.

What the mission means to Janie

I am rooted in the belief that every child deserves the best possible start in life, and the work we do at ZERO TO THREE helps to make that a reality. I am deeply committed to creating early childhood systems that are integrated, collaborative, and supportive of families, especially in the critical early years of development.

Professional Background  

Janie Huddleston brings over three decades of experience in early childhood education, child welfare, and systems change. Prior to her role as the National Director of Safe Babies and Early Childhood Systems, she worked for the Arkansas Department of Human Services in multiple leadership roles, where she led initiatives such as securing funding for Pre-K education, reforming Medicaid mental health programs, and driving major child welfare system reforms. Her extensive experience working with state and local agencies has shaped her focus on building coordinated, family-centered early childhood systems that integrate education, health, and social services.

Janie earned her Bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Henderson University and her Masters of Science degree in Biology and Elementary Administration from the University of Arkansas. Janie recently completed the Certificate Program in Implementation Practice through the UNC School of Social Work. She has been recognized for her advocacy efforts for children by the Child Welfare League of America and other state organizations. After working at the Department of Human Services, she decided to focus her career on promoting the health and development of infants and toddlers. Janie truly believes that when agencies understand the power of collaboration everyone, including the families they serve, has a greater chance of success!

Awards and Accolades:

  • Southern Institute on Children and Families Task Force Member 2001-2004
  • National Governor’s Association State Early Childhood Policy Leadership Team 2003-2004
  • State Assistance Team, Children’s Bureau 2001-2004
  • Child Welfare League of America- National Award for Advocacy 2002
  • The Council of State Governments Henry Toll Fellowship 2007
  • Pete Kennemer Public Policy Award for Advocacy in Behavioral Health Reform 2010

Future Vision 

Janie envisions a future where every child, regardless of their background, has access to a robust and integrated early childhood system that supports their development from infancy through preschool. She is committed to advancing systems that promote equity, strengthen families, and ensure that children’s most critical developmental needs are met through collaborative, evidence-based interventions.

Please contact us if you’d like to request Janie as a speaker.  And visit our Speakers Bureau page to learn about many of our other subject matter experts.