Beverly is an outstanding early childhood professional who is the dedicated Director of the Child Study Center. She hsd worked tirelessly to build and guide a model program for young children that became the foundation for the creation and selection of East Tennessee State University as TN's Center of Excellence in Early Childhood Learning and Development.
Beverly has overcome many hurdles during her career. She went back to school as a single mother of a young son. She earned her degree while working several jobs and later became a graduate assistant in the early childhood program. After receiving her graduate degree, she became an amazing toddler teacher. Her classes demonstrated how capable toddlers can be when an observant and knowledgeable teacher shapes the progam to their specific needs.

After Beverly became the Director of the Center she was in a major car accident and hit by a tow truck. For several months it seemed that she would not be able to return to her work----or walk without support. After months of physical therapy she returned, using a cane, to her beloved Center. During all of these difficulties, Beverly has remained a postive person, focused on the strengths of others, and "what is good for the children". In all her roles; leader,mentor, model, communicator,colloberator, teacher, and visionary, she has consistently demonstrated the best skills of an early childhood educator. As a director of a lab school, Beverly has tremendous influence and visibility in the community. She works effectively with a beginning student, a new graduate assistant, a professor, a parent, trained teachers,and the cleaning lady. She listens to each person and treats them all with respect.
Beverly has lead the teachers and center through the use of many innovative practices including: being inspired by Reggio Emilia schools, looping in infant/toddler classrooms, team teaching, and the improvement of outdoor area.She has creatively dealt with the changing requirements of the University budget during tight economic times while maintaining a high quality program.
Beverly is a true example of the best in our field. She has earned the Bammy Award for her excellence and contribution to early childhood education.