Chip Donohue, Ph.D., is internationally recognized as a leader in distance learning and online education, particularly for early childhood professionals. He joined Erikson as director of distance learning in January 2009.

In this role, Donohue is leading the development of Erikson's online master's degree for experienced early childhood teachers, infant specialist and bilingual/ESL certificates, and professional development programs. He is also director of the new Technology in Early Childhood Center where he is developing digital literacy resources and professional development programs for early childhood educators.

As a senior fellow of the Fred Rogers Center for Early Learning and Children's Media, he co-chaired the working group that updated and revised the NAEYC/FRC Joint Position Statement on Technology Tools and Interactive Media in Early Childhood Programs Serving Children from Birth through Age 8. At the Rogers Center he is also helping to develop the Framework for Quality in Children’s Digital Media and design the Early Learning Environment.

Donohue previously directed the Center for Early Childhood Professional Development and Leadership at the School of Continuing Education at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He taught face-to-face and online courses leading to a certificate and state credentialing in child care administration. He also has partnered with New Zealand Tertiary College to develop ecelearn, an innovative online approach for early childhood teacher education.

He has consulted and presented widely on distance learning topics across the U.S. and abroad. Since 2001, he has organized and cohosted several international e-teaching institutes.

I've nominated Paula for Innovator of the Year because there was no category for Lifetime Achievement, which would be more appropriate. Paula's body of work, including a vast array of practical, yet innovative books and tools has built the foundation for leadership development in early childhood education. Drawing from leadership principles and best practice used in nonprofit organizations and in the corporate world, Paula has worked tirelessly to develop innovative and much needed guidance for early childhood administrators and leaders. Most importantly, in everything she does, she walks the talk and applies all of the principles of her work to her own national leadership and in her work at the McCormick Center for Early Childhood Leadership, which she founded.

Ellen is a fearless leader and advocate for children, child care, parents, and child development. She is a tireless author and speaker who is prolific and has managed to elevate attention to child care, work and family life in national media. She uses traditional media as well as social media, bloging on many platforms to capture the interest of audiences of all ages. Ellen's leadership is inspirational, and collaborative. She is always willing to give of her time in order to inspire.