About me
Mary Niec is a passionate advocate for quality early care and education. Her career began at Olbrich Botanical Gardens in Madison, WI, where she immersed herself in outdoor education youth programs from 2006 to 2009. Following Olbrich, Mary served as a Lead Teacher and Program Director at Big Oak Child Care, and later as Executive Director at University Avenue Discovery Center. Her commitment to excellence led her to become a WECA/WEESSN program coach, where she provided guidance and support to 23 group child care centers in Dane County, WI. Mary's academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in Community Development and a Master of Fine Arts. While working in childcare programs, with support from Wisconsin's TEACH scholarship, she completed the Early Childhood Program Development Credential in 2017. In her current role with Shine Early Learning and YoungStar Connect, she wholeheartedly commits her efforts to nurturing dynamic and inclusive environments, ensuring every child has the opportunity to thrive.
