
Proud to be a proud member of the community since 2010


Program Management
Who We Are

Jennifer Fisher, M.Ed.
Founder & Executive Director
The Executive Director and Founder of Foundations for Early Childhood Excellence is a passionate advocate for developmentally appropriate educational environments. With a Masters Degree in Elementary and Early Childhood Education, former college professor and having first-hand experience in the classroom, Jennifer brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role. She is committed to creating environments where the children have access to the resources they need to reach their fullest potential and become life-long learners. Jennifer also understands the importance of supporting the teachers and staff in providing the best education possible. Our Executive Director is dedicated to making sure our program is a safe, nurturing and stimulating environment for the children and families we serve.
574-501-4ECE
Tricia Pendleton, M.Ed.
Director of Operations
Our Director of Operations is a highly experienced professional in the field of Early Childhood Education. She holds a Bachelors degree in Elementary Education as well as a Masters in Education and has over 15 years of experience in the field. Before her role as Director of Operations, she was a program director at our DeCamp St. location. Additionally, Tricia has served as a preschool teacher for over 10 years, teaching a wide range of ages and abilities. She is dedicated to providing a safe and stimulating environment for children to learn, grow, and develop. With her extensive knowledge and experience, she is an invaluable asset to our organization.
574-501-4ECE



Winnie O'Connell
Program Director Grant Street
Our Program Director on Grant Street in Elkhart is an experienced professional with a degree in early childhood education and over 12 years of classroom teaching experience. She has been a mentor to many and is dedicated to providing the highest quality education to our students. She is passionate about promoting a safe and nurturing learning environment and strongly believes in educating the whole child. Our Director is committed to the growth and development of each and every student in our program. She is an excellent leader and guide for our teachers and staff, and works hard to ensure that our students receive the best education possible.
574-501-4ECE

Tori McGrogan, MSW
Program Director DeCamp Ave.
At Foundations for Early Childhood Excellence, Tori strives to provide the best possible learning experiences for children and families through a combination of education and social-emotional development. She and her team are dedicated to helping young children reach their full potential in both the academic and social areas of their lives. Tori has a Masters Degree in Social Work and has been working with children and families for over 6 years. Her passion and dedication to this field is unparalleled and she believes that every child should have the opportunity to grow and learn in an environment that is safe and nurturing.
574-501-4ECE



Ashley Wallace
Program Director Indiana Ave.
Our Program Director at Indiana Ave, Ashley Wallace, has over 6 years of teaching experience in the field. She holds a Child Development Associates and is currently finishing up her degree in Early Childhood Education. Ashley believes in hands-on learning and is an experienced mentor and advocate for children. She has a passion for helping children learn and develop and works hard to provide them with the best possible education. Ashley is committed to providing a safe and secure environment for children to learn and grow.
574-501-4ECE
Juliane Tomes
Program Director Cleveland Rd.
The Program Director at our Cleveland Road location is an experienced professional, with over 7 years of experience in the field. Juliane is currently completing her degree in Early Childhood Education, and has private teaching experience in the elementary school setting, as well as preschool teaching experience. She has worked as a mentor in the field and is a valued member of the field of Early Childhood Education. Juliane's dedication to her staff, families and children she works with, combined with her passion for early childhood education make her an invaluable asset to our program.
574-501-4ECE
