Nebula Staff and Board of Directors

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Janiece has served on Nebula's board passionately as she believes that early childhood education is a pathway to a brighter future in this world.  She is the Early Childhood Faculty Chair at Red Rocks Community College. She has worked hard to ensure equity and access to all in Early Childhood higher education. 

In 2019 she developed the Red Rocks Community College's Mentor Teacher course and continues to work to develop innovative solutions to the early childhood workforce while providing research and evidence-based approaches. Janiece's academic background includes a  BA in Biology, Dordt College, Medical Technology certification MT(ASCP), American Society of Clinical Pathologists, MA Ed: Early Childhood Education emphasis, Concordia University, St. Paul, MN. She has worked in a variety of roles in Early Childhood including instructor, trainer, and director. 

 Melissa Maldonado serves as a Policy Analyst on the Illinois Policy team at Start Early, where she supports state legislative advocacy efforts in early childhood by working with the legislature and other policymakers in Springfield. Prior, she served as a Career Pathways Program Manager in Denver, Colorado where she led various early childhood workforce and professional development initiatives in Denver County. She also previously worked with children and families of Mesa County, Colorado, teaching early literacy and early bi-literacy skills during library programs and community outreach events. In addition to her expertise in early childhood, she has also participated in immigrant rights advocacy and child welfare as a Court Appointed Special Advocate in the foster care system of Colorado.  

She holds a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology with a minor in Speech and Communications from Colorado Mesa University. She is currently pursuing a Master of Jurisprudence (MJ) in Child Law and Policy with Loyola University Chicago’s School of Law and a Master of Science (MS) in Child Development with Erikson Institute.  

Gordon Duvall is a Doctor of Nursing Practice, pediatric nurse practitioner, fatherhood practitioner, educator, father, and community activist who has been involved in advocating for and serving the youth and adolescent community by providing direct care as well as serving as a clinical instructor for nursing students.   Gordon provides nursing consultation services to childcare centers in the Denver Metro area in an effort to ensure that our youngest community members receive quality care and are safe in the childcare settings that they attend.  Gordon has worked in his community as a health advocate working for children and those disadvantaged.  Gordon has most recently been the Aurora Community Health Clinic director of medical, education, and operations. 

Sayara Esslam humbly serves as a board member of Nebula Early Childhood Collaboration, bringing with her a wealth of knowledge and experience in the field of early childhood education. Beginning her educational journey in language and literature at Kabul University in Afghanistan, Sayara transitioned to the United States in 2013, driven by her passion for supporting children's development.

During her time in the U.S., Sayara embarked on a path of continuous learning and professional growth. She completed the Early Childhood Apprenticeship Program through Red Rocks Community College, laying the groundwork for her career in early childhood education. Sayara furthered her credentials by obtaining an Early Childhood Education Director certification from Community College of Denver and achieving a Level 4 credential in PDIS Colorado Shines.

Drawing from her diverse experiences, Sayara has worked tirelessly with children in various settings, including early childhood centers and elementary schools, both domestically and abroad. Her dedication extends beyond her professional roles, as she actively supports and advocates for women within the Afghan community, recognizing the challenges they face in pursuing careers in childcare.

Motivated by her deep-seated passion for education, particularly in the formative years, Sayara remains steadfast in her belief that every child deserves access to quality education and nurturing guidance. Her commitment to this cause underscores her unwavering dedication to shaping a brighter future for children worldwide.