OCTOBER 27, 2026 / 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM ET
TOPIC: Communication Strategies: Writing an Op-Ed & Legislator Meetings 101
REGISTRATION: bit.ly/4y4sahg
Presenter Biographies
Liz Richards, Director of Preschool, Westview Elementary – Ole Miss Preschool
Mississinewa Community Schools
“Bloom where you’re planted” is a quote Liz Richards lives by. A proud Mississinewa graduate, she began her early childhood journey at Ball State University, earning both her bachelor and master’s degrees in Family and Consumer Sciences, concentrating on child development and family wellness.
Liz has served as a preschool teacher, director, and currently leads Ole Miss Preschool, a NAEYC-accredited and Paths to QUALITY Level 4 program. She believes in the potential of every child and focuses on building genuine relationships that support emotional growth and problem-solving.
Outside of work, Liz enjoys family time with her husband, Jarrett, their six children, and two dogs—usually wrapped in a cozy blanket, watching movies, or enjoying the outdoors.
Erika Maia Robinson-Watkins is a faith-grounded educator, servant leader, community advocate, and former 2024 candidate for Indiana State Representative for District 4 in Northwest Indiana. With a strong academic foundation in early childhood and elementary education, she earned her Bachelor of Science in Early Childhood Education, Magna Cum Laude, from Morris Brown College, a Master of Arts in Elementary Education from Indiana University Northwest, and a second Master of Arts in Early Childhood Education from Ball State University.
Through her Erika for Indiana candidacy, Erika expanded her commitment to public service by advocating for children, families, educators, working parents, and communities often left out of important conversations. Her campaign reflected her belief that leadership should be rooted in service, equity, faith, accountability, and a deep understanding of the everyday challenges families face.
Guided by faith, purpose, and a lifelong commitment to service, Erika continues to use her education, experience, and voice to strengthen children, families, and communities through early childhood education, youth advocacy, civic engagement, and community-centered leadership.
OCTOBER 27, 2026 / 6:00 PM – 7:30 PM ET
TOPIC: Communication Strategies: Writing an Op-Ed & Legislator Meetings 101
REGISTRATION: bit.ly/4y4sahg
