09/03/2026
The Association for Early Learning Leaders (AELL) is pleased to announce an important leadership transition as Lori Buxton moves from her role as Executive Director to Public Relations Director, effective September 7, 2026.
Lori has served AELL with a deep commitment to its mission, its members, and the early education profession. During her tenure as Executive Director, she has helped strengthen the Association’s reach and impact while remaining steadfast in the belief that strong leaders build strong organizations, and strong organizations create better outcomes for children, families, and communities.
While Lori’s title is changing, her commitment to AELL and the early education community is not.
In her new role as Public Relations Director, Lori will continue to serve as a champion for the Association’s mission and values, supporting AELL’s work through professional development events, fundraising, advocacy, strategic relationships, and the advancement of quality through the National Accreditation Commission.
This transition also provides Lori the opportunity to devote more time to writing, consulting, training, and continuing to invest in leaders throughout the early education community.
AELL is deeply grateful for Lori’s leadership as Executive Director and for the passion, vision, relationships, and heart she has brought to the role. Her influence is woven throughout the work of the Association and the community of leaders it serves.
Leadership transitions are an important part of a healthy organization. They create opportunities to honor what has been built, welcome what is ahead, and allow leaders to continue contributing in new and meaningful ways.
We are grateful that this next chapter keeps Lori connected to AELL and to the people and profession she has spent so many years serving.
We celebrate all that Lori has contributed as Executive Director and look forward to the continued impact she will make in this new season of leadership.
Sincerely,
Tymothy Smith | Board President
Brittney Luther | Board Vice President
