NECC’s Board of Directors provides unwavering support and guidance to elevate our mission and vision. This month, we’re highlighting members Jacqueline Huscroft-D’Angelo, Ph.D., Nancy Edick, Ed.D., and Andrea Jahn. Get to know more about them below!
Nancy Edick, Ed.D.
Emeritus Dean & Associate Professor, University of Nebraska at Omaha
Nancy A. Edick, Ed.D., is an Emeritus Dean and Associate Professor at UNO’s College of Education, Health, and Human Sciences. She has had a distinguished career in educational leadership, teaching, research, and community service, focusing on teacher education and organizational collaboration. Her career includes leadership roles such as Dean, Associate Professor, Executive Director of the Metropolitan Omaha Educational Consortium, and classroom teacher in Omaha Public Schools. Dr. Edick has also contributed extensively to education literature and has been recognized with awards, including the Order of the Tower and the Phi Delta Kappa Leadership in Education Award.
What inspired you to become a board member for NECC?
I believe quality child care is the best way to assure children, families, and our communities have a successful future. NECC provides essential support to assure this happens in Nebraska.
What do you do for fun?
Spending time with my own family, which includes 5 grandchildren who bring me tremendous joy. Golfing, pickleball, and enjoying time at our lake home.
Name your favorite children’s book
That’s a tough one. So many good ones. Good Night, Good Night Construction Site was a favorite of mine and the grandkids. We also love all of Mo Willems Pigeon books!
Jacqueline Huscroft-D’Angelo, Ph.D.
Research Scientist, Oregon Research
Jacqueline Huscroft-D’Angelo, Ph.D., is a Senior Research Scientist at the Oregon Research Institute in Eugene, OR. Her research focuses on improving behavioral health services and educational outcomes for children and adolescents, particularly those with emotional or behavioral risk factors. Jacqueline’s federally funded projects bridge research and real-world school settings, creating better support systems for students, families, and educators. Her expertise in evidence-based educational and behavioral interventions aligns directly with NECC’s mission to provide every child with a strong foundation for the future.
What inspired you to become a board member for NECC?
My journey in education began in the classroom as a special educator, and those early experiences as an educator have profoundly shaped my understanding of the critical importance of high-quality early childhood education. I was drawn to the Nebraska Early Childhood Collaborative because its mission aligns perfectly with my deeply held belief that providing access to quality childcare is fundamental to building thriving communities. I am passionate about ensuring that every child has the opportunity to build a strong foundation for future success, and I am honored to contribute to NECC’s vital work in making that a reality for Nebraska’s children and families.
What do you do for fun?
My greatest joy comes from spending time with my husband and our two children Gabriella and Giuliano. I love cheering on our kids from the sidelines as they play and compete in their respective sports. Beyond that, I enjoy staying active and participating in local races—from 5ks to half-marathons. I also believe in giving back to our community through volunteering. When we have the opportunity, our family loves to travel internationally, exploring new places and cultures together.
Name your favorite children’s book
I Love You to the Moon and Back by Amelia Hepworth
Andrea Jahn, JD
Associate General Counsel & University Privacy Officer, Creighton University
Andrea Jahn is Associate General Counsel and University Privacy Officer for Creighton University. She represents health sciences schools across Omaha and Phoenix campuses and has a background in health law. She is also a board member of the Douglas County Health Center Foundation.
What inspired you to become a board member for NECC?
My years working in higher education and volunteering as a foster care review board member made me acutely aware how critical it is that children and families obtain support for a healthy start to life. I believe the younger that support begins, the better off our children are, and ultimately everyone benefits. A prior board member introduced me to the great work of NECC, and I wanted to be able to contribute to its vital work with Nebraska children and families.
What do you do for fun?
Walking, reading and time with family are my go-to activities outside of work.
Name your favorite children’s book
Room on the Broom by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler