MEET THE FOUNDER & CEO

Hi! I am Berna Artis. I have been in education for over 20 years, and it has been a truly fulfilling journey. With a B.A. in English Language Teaching and an M.A. in Early Childhood Education, I have had the privilege of teaching children between the ages of two and 16. In 2006, I took on my first leadership role in Early Childhood Education, and it has been an incredible experience ever since.

Becoming a certified trainer in 2009 opened up new doors for me to share my knowledge and passion with others. I have had the honor of presenting at local and national conferences, inspiring and empowering educators.

One of my greatest passions is advocating for anti-bias education, diversity, and equity. Throughout my career, I have worked with a diverse population, embracing different family styles, ethnicities, socio-economic backgrounds, and educational experiences. Volunteering and serving for causes I believe in has become a mission in my life, including providing training for leaders, educators, and families.

I am actively engaged in advocacy work and have had the privilege of participating in various committees and work groups, such as QRIS, the State Early Childhood Development Coordinating Council (SECDCC) Program Quality Committee, the Low Income Investment Fund Advisory Committee, and the Professional Learning Communities Committee. Furthermore, I served as the Vice President for Programs on the DCAEYC Board for four years and am currently serving as the President.

As the founder and CEO of The Artful Education Consulting, LLC, I am dedicated to supporting early childhood programs at various levels, with a specific focus on leadership, best practices, and quality improvement.

Beyond my professional endeavors, I find joy in exploring new cuisines, meeting people from diverse backgrounds, dancing to the rhythm of life, immersing myself in books of all genres, and enjoying music from diverse cultures and styles across the globe. Most importantly, I cherish my time with my loving family and friends.

Learning is a beautiful journey that we embark on, filled with all sorts of moments that shape us. From the highs to the lows, the celebrations to the challenges, and the joys to the frustrations, every experience contributes to our growth. As I reflect on my own journey, I am grateful for the people who have left a lasting impact on me. From my incredible parents, loving husband, and wonderful son to my childhood friends, dedicated teachers, inspiring mentors, and my extended family back home in Turkiye, each person has played a significant role in shaping who I am today. And, of course, let's not forget the children who constantly remind us of the magic of wonder, joy, and education.

I understand firsthand the importance of support as we navigate this journey, especially in our professional lives. My mission is to be the person who can offer you the guidance and empowerment you need to reach your goals, to recalibrate when necessary, and to continue making a difference in the lives of those you serve. Leadership takes many forms, and it can be both challenging and immensely rewarding. As an educator, your mission is to be the best version of yourself, creating the most enriching experiences and opportunities for the educators and children you work with. I want to understand your unique needs and the culture you are a part of, so that I can provide you with the support you need and deserve.

Let's embark on this journey together!

Best,

Berna