Vikki Anderson, a lead educator at the College of Education & Human Development’s Child and Family Research Center (CFRC), received the City of Reno Community Champion award from the Reno City Council on August 13, 2024. This accolade recognizes her exceptional dedication to early childhood education and ongoing commitment to learning.
With 30 years in early childhood education, Anderson joined the CFRC three and a half years ago. Known for her enthusiasm for hands-on, play-based learning, she has become a cherished figure at the center. “I love helping to facilitate the minds of young children,” Anderson said. “I am passionate about children learning through experiences that are fostered and encouraged through play.”
Anderson’s path in education is deeply personal. As a mother of two adult children, one of whom is a University of Nevada, Reno alumna in journalism, she has long supported higher education. Encouraged by her children, Anderson returned to school and will graduate this year at 55 with a Bachelor of Science in Human Development and Family Science from the University of Nevada, Reno.
Melissa Burnham, Ph.D., professor and department chair of HDFSC and executive coordinator of the CFRC, praised Anderson: “We are delighted to have such a wonderful student, mentor, and role model in the HDFS program. Vikki’s energy is contagious, and we are proud to see her recognized as a community champion. We are fortunate to have her as a soon-to-be alumna and valued member of the CFRC team.”
At the CFRC, Anderson’s work reflects her lifelong commitment to early education. She began in the two-year-old room and now teaches children she has nurtured since infancy. “Two-year-olds are my favorite age,” Anderson said. “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.”
Her dedication to both her profession and her educational journey made her a standout choice 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, it showed that someone noticed all the hard work I’ve put into my job and life.”
Jenna Dewar, senior lecturer of Human Development and Family Science, praised Anderson’s balance of skill and empathy. “Vikki exemplifies best practices in our field,” Dewar said. “She communicates with confidence and awareness, effectively balancing her classroom duties with mentoring at the CFRC and succeeding in her own studies. As a parent of a child in her classroom, I see her impact daily.”
The award ceremony was held at the Ward 5 Neighborhood Advisory Board meeting at Reno City Hall, where Anderson was honored by Councilmember Taylor and the City of Reno for her contributions to the community. 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.”
Anderson’s story is a powerful example of how dedication, education, and passion can positively impact a community.