Think Small is pleased to welcome Dr. Anne Marie Leland to its Board of Directors. Dr. Leland brings more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning early learning, community education, workforce development, and educational equity.
Dr. Leland serves as Director of Community Education and Strategic Partnerships for Edina Public Schools, where she oversees early learning, school-age care, youth enrichment, adult programs, and the district’s grants office. Throughout her career, she has worked to strengthen connections among schools, families, communities, and workforce systems to expand opportunities for children and lifelong learners.
Her experience spans school districts, state agencies, and community organizations. Prior to her current role, she led community education in Faribault Public Schools and served as a program administrator with the Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development, where she helped design statewide career pathway systems for adults. She also serves on the board of Edina Give and Go. Across these roles, Dr. Leland has built strong partnerships with diverse communities and helped secure significant public investments in early learning and workforce development.
“Dr. Leland understands how early childhood, K-12, and workforce systems connect to support Minnesota children and families,” said Cisa Keller, President and CEO of Think Small. “Her track record of building partnerships and aligning resources to expand opportunity will be invaluable as we deepen our work with early educators, families, and policymakers across the state. We’re honored to welcome her to our Board.”
As a member of the Board, Dr. Leland will help guide Think Small’s strategy and partnerships as the organization continues to strengthen early care and education across Minnesota. Her leadership will help advance Think Small’s vision of a time when economic and achievement gaps are closed and every child is ready for kindergarten, ultimately realizing their full potential.
Find Dr. Leland’s full bio and learn more about members of our Board of Directors on our website!
