Our Team
Lauren Small
Owner, Chief Executive Officer
Lauren founded EEBC to help early childhood businesses improve their business operations. With over 30 years of experience as an entrepreneur, educator, and business coach, she noticed a gap in the preschool/childcare industry: leaders lacked basic business skills. Lauren's programs have helped hundreds of businesses increase enrollment, decrease turnover, and boost revenue by 25%. Recognized for her work, she has presented at conferences nationwide and received awards for her contributions to the early childhood industry.
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lauren@earlyeducationbusiness.com
Lauren's LinkedIn Profile​​​​
Ed Hudgins
Vice President, Operations
Ed is a seasoned leader with a passion for people, processes, and purpose. Based in Chesapeake, Virginia, Ed holds an MA in Intercultural Leadership from Bethany Global University. With years of experience in operational leadership, culture building, people leadership, and process improvement, Ed has a proven track record of driving results and fostering a positive work environment. At EEBC, he oversees operations, leads strategic planning, and serves as chief of staff. Beyond his professional pursuits, Ed loves his family, music, working for peace and justice, and the Virginia Cavaliers.
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Jerry Stewart
Finance and Accounting
CEcD, Consultant, brings over 30 years of economic development and workforce development to the team of Early Education Business Consultants. He manages special projects for Early Education Business Consultants and has been actively involved in city and regional early education programs and initiatives. Jerry was involved in the initial planning and development for the Early Education Business Program with the Hampton Roads Small Business Development Center. He has successfully communicated the importance of early education to economic development and workforce development programs.
Ana Rodriguez
Training Manager
​Ana brings over a decade of experience in training and organizational development. With a degree in Business and an MBA from EAFIT University, she has worked as a subject matter expert, training leader, and curriculum designer in Colombia and the pharmaceutical sector. As a CPTD (Certified Professional in Teacher Development), Ana leads EEBC's training programs, applying adult learning theories and best practices to develop new skills in early childhood education leaders and directors.
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Katie Bayliss
Training Quality Coordinator
​Katie brings an early childhood perspective to business training. With a background in ECE, she focuses on participant engagement and integrates business concepts with child development. Katie also manages Leadership Academy, a networking and leadership training initiative for ECE leaders. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Science and a Master's degree in Early Childhood Education Administration. Katie is passionate about advocating for high-quality and sustainable early childhood care.
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Jennifer Voelker
Shared Services Manager
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Jennifer oversees our shared services recruitment and back-office administration work, building positive, productive relationships with our ECE clients and empowering them to focus on the children they serve. She is an administrative powerhouse who builds effective and efficient systems and processes. A Navy wife and mother of three, Jennifer holds a Bachelor's degree in Human Development and Family Services. Her previous experience working with children in childcare centers fuels her passion for helping others and contributes to her excellent work at EEBC.
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Anna Chavalier
Trainer/Consultant
Anna has over 25 years of experience in early childhood education. She served as the founding director of a non-profit child care center for 15 years and holds a Master of Science in Education. She brings all that experience and expertise to her role as Trainer/Consultant at EEBC. Anna is a graduate of the EEBC Business Program and is passionate about helping directors and owners grow their businesses for the benefit of the children under their care.
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Fiona Baradi
Executive Assistant
​Fiona, a key member of the EEBC team, applies her administrative prowess and educational background to streamline operations and support various initiatives. She contributes to developing training and marketing materials and is known for her "can-do" attitude. A passionate volunteer, Fiona is committed to empowering future generations. Inspired by José Rizal, she believes in the potential of youth and is excited to support early childhood education leaders at EEBC.
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Fabian Ortiz
Graphic Design
Fabian is our graphic design expert with over 16 years of experience. He has worked on branding, 2D animation, and advertising campaigns. At EEBC, he is in the process of renewing our branding and marketing materials. Fabian holds a Postgraduate Degree in Multimedia Production and is passionate about creating visually impactful designs that tell stories and connect with audiences.
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