We’re excited to share some important updates about our team at Best Beginnings! These changes are part of the strategic planning work we began in 2024, which is helping us focus more deeply on strengthening early literacy efforts across Alaska and streamlining our operations to maximize our impact.
With this renewed focus, we’ve welcomed new team members and made key role changes to better serve Alaska’s families and communities.
Welcome Back, Carrie Chisholm!
We’re thrilled to announce that Carrie Chisholm has returned as our Administrative Assistant. Her experience and organizational skills will help us run more smoothly behind the scenes, ensuring our team can focus on delivering high-quality literacy and education programs. She’ll also play a vital part in supporting our On to Kindergarten summer camp programs in Anchorage and beyond by collaborating with our seasonal Camp Director(s) and teachers.
Jennifer Caynor Expands Her Role
Jennifer Caynor, our Communications Specialist, is taking on new responsibilities as part of our focus on strengthening literacy initiatives. In addition to managing our communications and social media presence, Jennifer will now lead our Little Free Libraries projects. This work brings free books to communities across Alaska through stewardship and cultivation of free community book sites, encouraging a love of reading for children and families.
Marissa May Takes the Lead on Imagination Library Operations
A core part of our early literacy work is the Imagination Library, and we’re excited to share that Marissa May, our Program Coordinator, is now overseeing all Imagination Library operations in Alaska. She will manage the growing programs in Anchorage and Mat-Su and provide vital support to statewide partners as we continue to ensure more children have access to free, high-quality books.
Our Focus Moving Forward
These staff changes reflect the priorities laid out in our 2024 strategic plan, which aims to:
- Strengthen early literacy programs like Imagination Library and Little Free Libraries.
- Engage families more deeply through educational programming, expanded services, and advocacy that improves their lives.
- Streamline operations to improve efficiency and impact.
- Ensure long-term sustainability by focusing on what we do best — bringing the joy of reading to children across Alaska.
Have Questions?
For more information about these updates, please contact our Executive Director, Amie Collins.
We’re excited about the path ahead as we focus on what matters most — helping Alaska’s children build a strong foundation for a lifetime of learning. Stay tuned for more updates from our dedicated team!
— The Best Beginnings Team