The OGPR is pleased to announce that Dr. Margot Filipenko, Professor of Teaching in the Department of Language and Literacy Education, has agreed to assume the role of Coordinator, Early Childhood Education, beginning July 1, 2015.
Margot brings longstanding experience with our Early Childhood programs to her new role, and has a career-long record of contributions in teaching, supervision and scholarship focused on early learners. She joined the Faculty of Education in 2003, following 12 years as Head Teacher for the UBC Child Study Centre, and served as Acting Director of the Institute for Early Childhood Education and Research in 2008-2009.
Margot will be “picking up the baton” from Dr. Marilyn Chapman, Director of the Institute for Early Childhood Education and Research (IECER) and Early Childhood Education (ECE) programs, following Marilyn’s retirement this summer. I know that I speak for every member of the IECER Advisory Committee in expressing appreciation for the leadership that Marilyn has provided. Through her efforts, and in collaboration with her team of dedicated instructors and faculty, the Faculty’s early childhood programs have evolved from a rather fragile existence to become a significant area of focus. Current ECE programs span the range from Diplomas, Summer Institutes, Certificates, to MEds and MAs, involve faculty from each of the four departments, and have established strong linkages with schools, government, and community.
Please join us in offering congratulations and a warm welcome to Margot, and in extending heartfelt thanks and appreciation to Marilyn. Thanks to their mutual dedication and expertise, the years ahead look bright for our Early Childhood programs!