In recognition of her outstanding dedication to early childhood education and her commitment to continuous learning, Vikki Anderson, a lead educator at the College of Education & Human Development’s Child and Family Research Center (CFRC), was awarded the City of Reno Community Champion award by the Reno City Council on Aug. 13, 2024.
Anderson, who has worked in the field of early childhood education for 30 years, joined the CFRC three and a half years ago. She has become a beloved figure within the CFRC, known for her passion for helping young children develop through hands-on, play-based learning. "I love helping to facilitate the minds of young children," Anderson shared. "I am passionate about children learning through experiences that are fostered and encouraged through play."
Her journey in education has been deeply personal. As a mother of two adult children, one of whom is a University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä, Reno alumna with a degree in journalism, Anderson had long championed the importance of a university degree. However, it wasn't until her children encouraged her to complete her own education that she returned to school. This year, at the age of 55, Anderson will graduate with a bachelor of science degree in Human Development and Family Science from the University of ÁùºÏ±¦µä, Reno.
“We are delighted to have such a wonderful student, mentor and role model as part of the HDFS program and are excited to watch her walk across the stage this year,” Melissa Burnham, Ph.D., professor & department chair of HDFSC and executive coordinator of the CFRC said. “Vikki is an inspiration, and we are so proud of her recognition as a community champion. Vikki’s energy is contagious. We are lucky to have her as a soon-to-be alumna of the HDFS program and as a wholehearted member of the CFRC team.”
Her work at the CFRC is a natural extension of her lifelong commitment to early education. Starting in the two-year-old room, she now teaches a group of children she has nurtured since infancy. "Two-year-olds are my favorite age," Anderson said with a smile. "They have just enough spunk and curiosity to keep me on my toes. They are eager to explore and learn about their world, and I love helping their light bulbs begin to flicker and then grow brighter."
Anderson’s dedication to her profession and her own educational journey made her a standout candidate for the Community Champion award. "This award means a lot to me," Anderson said. "It's my first real recognition for what I do for young children, even though I've been in this field for the past 30 years. When Jenna Dewar nominated me for this award, it meant someone noticed all the hard work I've put into my job and life."
“Vikki is the perfect example of best practice our field,” said Jenna Dewar, senior lecturer of Human Development and Family Science. “She communicates with an ease that shows confidence in her skill set balanced with an awareness of each interaction’s potential for connection, learning and growth. She effectively balances her own classroom and serving as a mentor at the CFRC with success in her own college studies. My favorite role I hold with Vikki is as a parent of a child in her classroom where I am lucky enough witness her impact daily.”
The award ceremony took place during the Ward 5 Neighborhood Advisory Board meeting at Reno City Hall, where Anderson was recognized by Councilmember Taylor and the City of Reno for her contributions to making the city not just livable, but lovable. Anderson expressed her gratitude, saying, "I was honored and happy to receive the award. It feels wonderful to be acknowledged for something I am so passionate about."
As Anderson continues to inspire both her students and peers, her story serves as a testament to the impact that dedication, education and passion can have on a community.
