Stephanie Heald, PhD

Dr. Stephanie Heald serves as the Department Head of Early Childhood Professions within the Division of Education Professions in the Global College of Professional Advancement. Previously, she led both the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education and the Bachelor of Arts in Early Childhood Education Administration programs as Program Chair. Dr. Heald holds a Ph.D. in Education, an M.S. in Education, a B.S. in Elementary Education, and an A.A.S. in Early Childhood Education. She also earned dual advanced Building- and District-Level Educational Leadership Certificates from St. John’s University, where she was inducted into Kappa Delta Pi.

Dr. Heald’s passion for student success is reflected in the innovative initiatives she has developed to strengthen learning, connection, and professional identity in virtual settings. She co-created the UAGC Early Childhood Education Center, a thriving virtual learning community that unites educators nationwide through collaborative resources, professional networking, and reflective dialogue. She also co-founded the annual UAGC Early Childhood Education Conference, a national event designed to inspire continuous learning and collaboration across the early childhood field, and serves as a long-time advisor to the Early Childhood Education Student Organization, empowering future educators to lead, connect, and contribute beyond the classroom. Her leadership in course design and digital learning innovations has earned national recognition, including the 2023 ADEIL College Course of the Year Award for Advancement in Online Learning.