Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Education (CEECE)
Empowering Educators • Elevating Early Learning
The CEECE serves as a hub for training, professional development, and the dissemination of research-verified educational practices, as well as emerging models of excellence.
These initiatives will position Catawba College’s School of Education as a leader in promoting current best-practices in early childhood education, highlighting emerging models in the field, and in shaping the future of early childhood education through innovative research, high-quality instruction, and professional training opportunities.
Our Goals
Our Goals
-
Advancing Evidence-Based Practices: Supporting research and actionable insights for improved outcomes in early learning.
-
Building a Well-Informed Workforce: Engaging early childhood educators in a comprehensive professional development system that promotes excellence in practice, fosters professional identity, and encourages leadership development.
-
Promoting Community Collaboration: Partnering with early childhood professionals, faculty, and lead agencies to strengthen systems and services.
-
Shaping Future Educators: Supporting teacher preparation grounded in inclusive, research-driven approaches.
-
Centering Wellness: Ensuring access to opportunities for reflective practice, social support systems, and resources to enhance educator well-being.
Upcoming Events
Cultivate Child Development Conference
Join early childhood educators from across NC for two inspiring days dedicated to child development and to creating the conditions for excellence in early childhood education.
Hosted by the Center for Excellence in Early Childhood Education and partners - Appalachian State University, East Carolina University, UNC Charlotte, and the Center for the Environment at Catawba College.
📅 August 6–7, 2026
📍 Center for the Environment
💲 FREE to attend!
Your registration includes:
✅ Catered breakfast and lunch both days
✅ A signed copy of Mind in the Making from best selling author, Ellen Galinsky
✅ Inspiring sessions focused on child development - birth through age five
✅ A chance to win a $500 classroom book collection
We are thrilled to welcome Ellen Galinsky, bestselling author and President of Families and Work Institute, as our keynote speaker, along with our featured speaker, Kim Shaw, founder of A Safe Place Child Enrichment Center- voted Raleigh's Best in 2021, 2022, 2023, & 2024.
Cultivate is thoughtfully designed to deepen your understanding of how young children learn and help you translate that knowledge into meaningful, engaging practice.
🌟 Come curious. Leave inspired.
🌟 Grow your knowledge. Strengthen your practice.
🔗 Scan the QR code or register online today. Space is limited!
