In the world of early childhood education, few leaders embody passion and purpose as fully as Ms. Vantoinette Savage. With over 39 years of experience as a family child care educator and advocate, Ms. Savage has dedicated her life to elevating family child care and empowering educators to provide high-quality care for children and families across North Carolina.
Her recent appointment to the North Carolina Child Care Commission is a testament to her visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to improving the lives of educators, children, and families.
This new role allows Ms. Savage to continue her work at a critical level, influencing policies that will shape the future of child care in the state.
Her influence extends nationally through her roles as North Carolina’s State Representative for the National Association for Family Child Care (NAFCC), a member of NAFCC’s inaugural “Leaders Shaping Leaders” cohort, and a NAFCC Board Member and Affiliate Leader. Ms. Savage’s unwavering dedication earned her the prestigious Ruby Brunson Community Advocate Award in 2023, a testament to her profound impact on child care advocacy. She also received the BCDI Carolinas Eleanor Toliver Distinguished Leader award in 2024.
Ms. Savage shared her excitement at this new chapter, saying,
“This appointment is not just a recognition of my work, but a recognition of the vital role family child care plays in our communities. I am honored to bring our voices to the table and help shape a stronger, more equitable future for educators, families, and children.”
Reflecting on her journey, she noted,
“NAFCC has been instrumental in helping me amplify the voices of family child care educators in North Carolina. Together, we are shaping policies that create lasting change for educators, families, and children.”
Ms. Savage’s impact is perhaps most vividly seen in times of crisis. When Hurricane Helene devastated parts of North Carolina, leaving family child care educators struggling to rebuild, she took swift action. Recognizing the immediate need for support, Ms. Savage launched a relief fund to provide critical aid. Her initiative attracted donations from major contributors like Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Carolina, Dancing Bear Toys, and countless others. This effort provided not just financial relief but also hope and stability to those facing immense challenges.
Her work is rooted in a deep belief that family child care is a cornerstone of strong communities. By supporting educators, she ensures that children receive the nurturing and education they need to thrive. Her advocacy extends beyond relief efforts; she continuously fights for equitable policies that recognize the unique value of family child care within the broader early education system.
As a member of the North Carolina Child Care Commission, Ms. Savage brings unparalleled expertise and a powerful voice for family child care educators. Her mission is clear: to ensure that every educator, regardless of their circumstances, has the tools, support, and recognition they deserve. Her leadership will undoubtedly influence policies that prioritize the needs of family child care educators, benefiting families and children across the state.
As she embarks on this new role, Ms. Savage’s dedication to her work remains clear:
“Family child care is the foundation of strong communities. My mission has always been to support and uplift educators so they can continue to nurture and inspire the next generation.”
Ms. Vantoinette Savage is more than a leader—she is a changemaker. Her story is a testament to the power of dedication, resilience, and vision in transforming lives and communities. Family child care in North Carolina, and beyond, is stronger because of her unwavering efforts. Her leadership will inspire transformative change for years to come.
