Finding Joy in Education: Erin Gutiérrez's Lifelong Journey at GovState and Beyond
For Erin Gutiérrez, a proud alumna and current Executive Director of the Family Development Center (FDC) at Governors State University, education has always been a deeply personal and transformative journey. Though her mother didn’t finish college, she instilled the importance of education in her children—so much so that both Erin and her brother went on to earn graduate degrees from GovState.
“Honestly, it means everything,” Gutiérrez said when asked about her GovState education. “I started grad school over 20 years ago and essentially never left. The FDC is a cherished second home to me, and my journey here sometimes seems like a fairy tale.”
That journey began with a “temporary” job as a pre-K paraprofessional in a Chicago Public Schools classroom using the Reggio Emilia Approach to Early Childhood Education. Captivated by the child-centered, arts-integrated philosophy, Gutiérrez pivoted from her plans to study geology and enrolled at GovState to become a teacher. A chance encounter on campus led her to the FDC, where she completed her student teaching, eventually joining the team in 2006.
Over the years, Gutiérrez has worn many hats—preschool teacher, advocate, grant writer, and now executive director. While she had to shift focus during the COVID-19 pandemic, she remains committed to someday re-implementing the Reggio Emilia approach at the center. “It’s a constructivist approach that sees children as capable protagonists in their learning,” she explains. “The curriculum emerges from their interests and is demonstrated through creative expression.”
Her experience at GovState shaped her philosophy of teaching and leadership. She credits faculty like Prof. Wexler, Dr. Klomes, and Dr. Kinsey for inspiring her. “Prof. Wexler taught me the value of parent engagement, and Dr. Klomes helped me see the importance of first-hand experiences for children. Dr. Kinsey supported me through early challenges and reminded me that teaching is a journey.”
Today, Gutiérrez leads with that same care and intention. Under her direction, the FDC has expanded its STEM initiatives with hydroponics, vermicomposting, and a thriving vegetable and pollinator garden. The center’s garden has become a symbol of both sustainability and community care—providing organic produce for student meals, family engagement events, and even the campus food pantry. “The first year we harvested 1,500 pounds of produce,” she recalled. “Now, we’re even sending baby chicks home with families who want to raise them for eggs.”
Beyond the campus, Gutiérrez is actively involved in state-wide advocacy for early childhood education. She serves on the Birth to Five Illinois: Region 56 Action Council, where she amplifies the needs of Will County families and early childhood educators. She also participates in the Smart Start Childcare Advisory Committee, Illinois Head Start Association, and the Raising Illinois Policy Work Group. “It’s an honor to be part of the bigger picture of what’s happening in Illinois,” she said.
Gutiérrez believes collaboration is critical. “It’s important for nonprofits to advocate for systemic change at the government level,” she said. “Collaborating with others who have the same mission magnifies our impact.”
When asked what advice she has for current students pursuing careers in education, her message is heartfelt and clear: “Educators face burnout and turnover. I won’t tell you to remember your ‘why’—I’ll tell you to remember your joy.”
She shared a moment that deeply touched her: a former parent returning to the FDC with her now 19-year-old child. “She said their time at the FDC was magical. That was probably the best compliment I’ve ever received. Teaching was magical for me, too. The joy I found with the children made the hard work worth it. That joy was the protective factor that kept me going.”
In a world where early childhood education faces ongoing challenges, Erin Gutiérrez continues to be a joyful force for change—rooted in compassion, lifted by experience, and powered by her love for learning and community.
We are proud to celebrate Erin Gutiérrez’s story as a shining example of how Governors State alumni lead with heart, purpose, and dedication. Her journey reminds us that meaningful impact starts with passion—and grows through community. Thank you, Erin, for continuing to make GovState proud!
Author: Jocelyn Bell, Alumni Relations Communication Coordinator