SouthSide Early Childhood Center Welcomes Leah Hawkins as Executive Director

ST. LOUIS, June 5, 2025 —The Board of Directors of SouthSide Early Childhood Center is proud to announce the appointment of Leah Hawkins as its new Executive Director, effective June 16, 2025.

Leah Hawkins, Executive Director

Hawkins brings a wealth of experience in education and nonprofit leadership. With over 20 years of expertise in various roles—including teacher, consultant, and director—Hawkins has a proven track record of leading impactful programs, most recently as Senior Director of Operations at Youth in Need, a nonprofit supporting child, youth, and families with education, counseling, and housing services in eastern Missouri. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Leah to our SouthSide family,” said Pat Miller, Board President of SouthSide Early Childhood Center. “Her passion for early childhood education, coupled with her strategic vision and collaborative leadership style, makes her the ideal person to guide us into our next chapter.” 

Hawkins succeeds Jackie Weaver, who has led the organization since 2021, leaving a strong foundation for future growth. As Executive Director, Hawkins will oversee all aspects of SouthSide’s mission to provide high-quality early childhood education to children and families in St. Louis City.  

Inspired by SouthSide’s long-standing commitment to children and families, Hawkins speaks to the transformative role early education plays in building stronger communities:  

“I believe early childhood education is one of the most powerful tools we have to break cycles, build futures, and create equity. My purpose is to lead with empathy, accountability, and love—and to help both people and systems thrive.”- Leah Hawkins 

SouthSide is excited to welcome Hawkins on board and looks forward to her leadership supporting children and families in the St. Louis community. 

Media Contact: 
Cleo Zundel 
Development Director 
314-333-7111 
czundel@southside-ecc.org