Bringing Hope Through Early Learning: A Message from Catherine Dennis

Hello and welcome!

I’m Catherine Dennis, and I’m honored to serve as the new Director of Early Learning at Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington. With a heart for children and a passion for building strong, supportive systems, I bring decades of experience in early childhood education to this role. Most recently, I served as a Region 10 Head Start Early Childhood Specialist Manager and Adjunct Faculty at Walla Walla Community College. I’m proud to continue teaching in that role, as it keeps me closely connected to the needs and challenges of today’s early childhood professionals. It also allows me to help shape the next generation of educators.

In my new role (and yes, I’ll consider myself “new” for the first year—then I’ll graduate to “veteran”!), I’m excited to lead and collaborate across our eight-county region to strengthen early learning partnerships at the local, regional, and state levels. I’ll be working closely with programs like Parents as Teachers, Childcare and ECEAP, Child Care Nutrition, Early Achievers, Creative Kids, Early Connections Play and Learn, and many more. My goal is to ensure that our services are coordinated, high-quality, and deeply rooted in the needs of the families we serve.

My inspiration and purpose stem from a simple but powerful belief: every child deserves to feel loved and to grow in a safe, nurturing environment. That belief has guided my work in trauma-informed practices, my leadership in Head Start programs across Alaska, Idaho, Oregon, and Washington, and my commitment to shaping future educators through higher education.

As a mother of seven, this work is deeply personal. I know firsthand that raising a child is no small feat. My role is to help create systems that make it easier for families to thrive.

I am a strategic differentiator. I see patterns, opportunities, and solutions. I move with clarity, heart, and intention. My difference is rooted in purpose, and I’m here to create meaningful impact for children, families, and communities.

I’m excited about what’s ahead. Be on the lookout for a new hub designed just for parents and providers. It will offer easy access to links, events, and tips to support you in your role. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube, where we’ll share practical tools and inspiration to help you not just survive these early years, but thrive.

Check back regularly for new blog posts written by me or guest contributors. This space will be a place to share stories, celebrate milestones, and explore the many ways we’re bringing hope through early learning.

I always remember when my children were young, people would say, “Take it all in—it goes so fast.” Amid the chaos and the crazy, it was hard to really hear that. But I’ll tell you this: they were right. Time flies. Partnering with you to support you through this season gives me immense joy. I’ve been there. Think of us as your cheerleader, your support, and your guide on the side.

I look forward to walking this journey with you.

With gratitude,

Catherine Dennis
Director of Early Learning
Catholic Charities Serving Central Washington