Colleen Hernandez has dedicated 30 years to advancing the field of child development. She began her career as a Child Development Specialist, later transitioning to a Service Coordinator role at the San Gabriel Pomona Regional Center, where she managed a diverse caseload and oversaw the delivery of services under IFSP guidelines.

Her 12 years at the Braille Institute of Los Angeles were marked by direct work with families, training community organizations, and advocating for visually impaired children. Colleen played a pivotal role in connecting families with top ophthalmologists and integrating children into inclusive preschool and Head Start environments.

Since 2006, Colleen has served as Program Director at Sunny Days, where she has led the expansion of services. Under her leadership, the program has partnered with additional regional centers and expanded services, including ABA therapy, adaptive skills training, and eligibility evaluations. She has also championed innovative approaches such as parent coaching and “bagless” intervention models.

Colleen is known for cultivating long-term staff relationships and fostering a collaborative, creative environment. She has collaborated with Arielle Ryden to modernize the onboarding and training protocols, ensuring employees are well-equipped to support families.

Her expertise has been recognized through appointments to multiple early start and state-level committees. She frequently emphasizes a strengths-based approach in her advocacy and work with families.

Colleen holds a degree in Child Development from the University of La Verne and is certified as a Child Life Specialist. Her enduring passion lies in empowering families and helping children thrive.