Wendy Martin
Before joining Vermont Humanities, Wendy served as Programs Director and then Executive Director of the Vermont Center for the Book, the organization that developed the nationally recognized Mother Goose Programs. In that role, she worked closely with early educators, child-care providers, and librarians to design and deliver professional development opportunities that helped adults foster early literacy, curiosity, and a love of learning in young children. The Mother Goose workshops and courses explored children’s literature as a powerful tool for developing language, imagination, and foundational skills in literacy, STEM, and social studies.
Throughout her career, Wendy’s focus has been on connecting adults who work with young children to the very best books and strategies for meaningful engagement. At Vermont Humanities, that mission continues through its early literacy initiatives—Never Too Early, the Vermont Early Literacy Initiative (VELI), and related programs that support libraries and educators statewide. One of the key goals is to expand professional development opportunities for early educators and librarians so that every child in Vermont—no matter where they live—has access to rich language experiences and a lifelong relationship with books.
Wendy is thrilled to be part of this work, continuing to collaborate with dedicated professionals who share a deep belief in the power of stories, conversation, and imagination to build stronger families and communities.
Leanne Porter M.Ed.
With over 35 years of dedicated experience in the field of education, Leanne Porter is a passionate educator and innovator known for her expertise in curriculum development and training. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Child Development from Keene State College, she continued her academic journey with a Master of Education from Lesley College. Leanne has also pursued advanced studies, completing 37 post-master’s credits while working towards her doctorate in Education and Administration at the University of Massachusetts.
Leanne has made significant contributions to the Vermont State College system, serving as the Coordinator of Academic Services at the Community College of Vermont, an Assistant Professor of Education at Northern Vermont University, and leading the online Early Childhood Education program at NVU. Her diverse professional journey also includes impactful roles as an Assistant Principal at a K-8 school and as the Post Permanence State Manager for the Agency of Human Services, where she shaped policies that directly affected children and families.
Her commitment to early childhood education shines through her experience as Director of two large childcare centers, operations of a home childcare center, and the establishment of satellite classrooms for Head Start programs. Leanne’s teaching prowess also extends to Westbrook College, where she directed the laboratory childcare center and inspired students with her innovative approach.
In addition, Leanne has played a vital role in the private educational sector in New York City as a teacher, trainer, and consultant. There, she crafted, published, and field-tested groundbreaking programs for infants, toddlers, and their families in collaboration with various children’s and art museums.
With her extensive background and a deep passion for learning, Leanne Porter is dedicated to equipping educators with the tools and insights they need to inspire the next generation.
