LLS and anthropology alumna Teresa Ramos (BA, ’04; MA, ’08; PhD, ’12; anthropology with a minor in Latina/Latino studies) has been named the first secretary of the Illinois Department of Early Childhood (IDEC). Ramos is currently the first assistant deputy governor for education in Governor JB Pritzker’s office. Pending state Senate approval, Ramos will begin her new role in January and the department will be fully operational by the summer of 2026. The department combines programs currently overseen by several other state agencies including oversight and funding of preschool programs and childcare centers. IDEC will also oversee home visiting and early intervention programs for pre-school aged children.

According to the press release from the governor’s office, Ramos was instrumental in the strategic planning involved in designing, proposing, and launching the newest state agency.

“Dr. Ramos has served the state of Illinois admirably in both the public and private sector, and I can think of no person better positioned to shepherd IDEC as it ramps up to full operations,” said Governor JB Pritzker in the press release. “Her expertise across education, child care, community engagement, and early childhood development make her a leader in her field that I know will lead the new department to success.”

“I’m eager to get started working with an incredible team of state employees, parents and families, advocates, and early childhood providers to create something exceptional that will give every infant, toddler, and young child an opportunity for a strong and healthy start,” said Teresa Ramos in the press release.

While she was a Latina/Latino studies graduate minor, Ramos was a TA for LLS 100: Intro to Latina/Latino Studies. She was also a researcher with the Ethnography of the University Initiative and helped compile an ethnographic report on the jubilee commemoration of the Brown v. Board of Education Supreme Court decision.

Prior to her current role, Ramos was the vice president of public policy, research, and advocacy at Illinois Action for Children, a child care and early education nonprofit. Ramos also served as director of community engagement for Advance Illinois and assisted the Governor’s education transition team in 2018.

Photo courtesy of the Governor's office.