NECC’s Board of Directors provides unwavering support and guidance to elevate our mission and vision. This month, we’re highlighting member Dr. Dalhia Lloyd, Director of Professional Learning at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute. Get to know more about her below!
Dr. Dalhia Lloyd, Director of Professional Learning, Buffett Early Childhood Institute
Dr. Dalhia Lloyd is an early childhood education scholar and the director of professional learning at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute at the University of Nebraska. With a doctorate in human sciences from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Dr. Lloyd specializes in anti-bias, anti-racist, and culturally grounded approaches to support the optimal development of Black children. Her research examines the racial socialization and culturally specific parenting practices that shape young Black children’s experiences, as well as teachers’ interactions with racially marginalized learners. Passionate about dismantling racial inequities and reducing opportunity gaps in early childhood education (birth through Grade 3), Dr. Lloyd works to create more equitable learning environments that foster the success of all children. She worked closely with colleagues from Boston University to help establish the Assessing Classroom Sociocultural Equity Scale, an instrument used to measure equitable teaching practices.
In addition to research, Dr. Lloyd is deeply engaged in coaching and professional development for educators, leveraging her expertise to improve instructional practices and promote culturally responsive teaching. She has extensive experience working with educators and families and, as an early childhood coach, has collaborated with school-based personnel to implement policies and practices that support children’s learning and development. Her next initiative integrates her research with AI and virtual reality-based professional learning tools to enhance classroom practices and teacher-child interactions. Her commitment to equitable, high-quality, and early learning experiences strongly aligns with her commitment to her community.
What inspired you to become a board member for NECC?
I’ve devoted my career to advancing quality early childhood experiences, and NECC’s commitment to fostering high-quality, culturally responsive programming really resonated with me. Joining the board seemed like the perfect way to bring together my research, passion, and my desire to influence policy and professional learning for early childhood educators. I’m energized by NECC’s collaborative spirit and the opportunity to partner with fellow advocates to support our community.
What do you do for fun?
When I’m not immersed in early childhood work, you can often find me coaching on the track. I also love binge-watching a good show, traveling with my family, and experimenting with new recipes in the kitchen.
Name your favorite children’s book
One of my all-time favorites is Last Stop on Market Street by Matt de la Peña (illustrated by Christian Robinson). I love how it captures the beauty of everyday moments, celebrates intergenerational bonds, and gently teaches gratitude—all through a vibrant, urban setting that so many of our community’s children can see themselves in.
