Thursday, Apr. 24, 2025
United Way of the Columbia-Willamette and our Early Learning Washington County (ELWC) initiative are proud to announce Nancy as Interim Director—a role she steps into after more than a decade of dedicated work alongside early childhood educators, providers, and community partners.
Nancy’s career has been defined by a deep commitment to equity and early learning. She’s helped strengthen professional development pathways, led cross-sector collaborations, and worked tirelessly to ensure that systems reflect the voices and needs of the communities they serve.
“As someone deeply committed to the well-being of families and young children in Washington County, I step into this role with both humility and a deep sense of responsibility,” Nancy said. “I’m honored to step into the role of Interim Director during this important time for our organization and our community.”
“Our mission has always been clear: to center families, to support children, and to build systems that truly work for every member of our community. That mission doesn’t pause or slow down during a leadership transition. In fact, it becomes even more important that we stay grounded in our purpose, and that’s exactly what we intend to do.”
Nancy Leon, Interim Director of Early Learning Washington County
As a first-generation college graduate, Nancy has consistently advocated for safe, nurturing environments and meaningful educational opportunities for all children. Her work is grounded in culturally sustaining, trauma-informed practices, and shaped by strong, trusted relationships across the region.
She’s collaborated with partners like TRI, Trauma Informed Oregon, and the Oregon Registry Online (ORO), and served on the Rule Advisory Committee for Every Child Belongs. Through it all, her focus has remained clear: supporting children and families by building responsive, inclusive systems.
“Our mission has always been clear: to center families, to support children, and to build systems that truly work for every member of our community,” she said. “That mission doesn’t pause or slow down during a leadership transition. In fact, it becomes even more important that we stay grounded in our purpose, and that’s exactly what we intend to do.”
Nancy said her priority during this interim period is to ensure continuity and stability in both programming and partnerships. “We will continue to advocate, listen, and show up for the families who rely on us,” she said. “Our programs, priorities, and passion remain strong, as does our commitment to equity, collaboration, and impact.”
She added, “I’m proud to work alongside a team that brings heart and expertise to this work every day. Together, we’ll continue to build systems that ensure every child and family in Washington County has the opportunity to thrive.”
As Nancy begins this new chapter, ELWC is excited to move forward under her steady and thoughtful leadership—one rooted in purpose, community, and the belief that every family deserves the opportunity to flourish.
