LaJoy Montgomery is the proud wife to Baron and mother to Zaria, Zaire-LiBaron, and Zorah. She has over 17 years of Early Childhood experience. She serves as a Regional Early Childhood Manager, supporting five states with a Training and Technical Assistance contractor with the Office of Head Start. Mrs. Montgomery developed a child health and safety protocol that gained nationwide recognition, leading to nominations for both the Rookie of the Year and Impactful Innovation awards. In addition, she was named an Arkansas Money and Politics 2024 Achiever in Their Forties and honored with induction into the 2024 Arkansas State University Alumni Chapter of the National Society of Leadership and Success.  

Throughout her career, she mentored aspiring teachers and administrators by sharing her knowledge to improve professionalism in the field. LaJoy Montgomery earned a Bachelor of Art degree in Interdisciplinary Studies, a Master of Science Degree in Early Childhood Services and is pursuing a Doctor of Education degree in Organizational Leadership with an emphasis in Organizational Development from Grand Canyon University. Mrs. Montgomery’s research interests focus on understanding how childcare leaders define effective leadership practices that lead to program quality.  

LaJoy Montgomery is active in her community, serving in various capacities in civic organizations that align with her passions and interests. She is the President of the Little Rock Metro Area Branch of the National Association of University Women, a member mentor and member of the Finance Council with the Junior League of Little Rock, a member of Sister Friends United, and a volunteer with the Arkansas Single Parent Scholarship Fund. Mrs. Montgomery has provided consultation and facilitation support to local programs on a variety of topics such as boosting staff morale, team engagement, and organizational climate. Despite this full plate, she still finds time to support black women and black business, and she reminds others to find balance in everything you do.