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Our Experts

The Buffett Institute has subject-matter experts on hand to discuss or present on a variety of topics related to early childhood, including child development and education, workforce issues, policy, and more. 

To request an interview or speaker, contact Ally Freeman (afreeman11@nebraska.edu). 

Dr. Alexandra Daro, Director of Applied Research at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, leads initiatives to bridge research and practice in early childhood.

Alexandra Daro, Ph.D

Director of Applied Research

As Executive Director, Dr. Gilliam provides vision and leadership for the Buffett Institute, collaborating with university campuses and community partners to transform the lives of young children. His extensive research addresses critical issues such as preschool expulsions, workforce well-being, and the impact of early childhood policies on school readiness.

Walter S. Gilliam, Ph.D.

Executive Director

Dr. Dalhia Lloyd, Director of Digital Education at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, focuses on leveraging technology and research to support children, families, and educators.

Dalhia Lloyd, Ph.D.

Director of Digital Education

Dr. Sarche directs the Institute’s tribal research and policy efforts to improve early learning access and quality for American Indian and Alaska Native communities.

Michelle Sarche, Ph.D.

Senior Director of Tribal Research, Policy, and Partnerships

Dr. Amy Schmidtke, Director of Educational Practice at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, works to improve early learning outcomes through research-based practice.

Amy Schmidtke, Ed.D.

Director of Educational Practice

Dr. Amy Schmidtke, Director of Educational Practice at the Buffett Early Childhood Institute, works to improve early learning outcomes through research-based practice.

Amy Schmidtke, Ed.D.

Director of Educational Practice

Dr. Thompson collaborates with the Buffett Institute to conduct applied research and outreach, working to strengthen the early childhood workforce and improve educational outcomes for young children across Nebraska.

Paula Thompson, Ed.D.

Cille and Ron Williams Community Chair for Early Childhood Education, University of Nebraska at Kearney

Dr. Lai leads research and outreach initiatives, including the Knowledge Network for Early Childhood Education Workforce (KNEW) project, aimed at increasing the recruitment and retention of rural early childhood educators in Nebraska.

Philip Lai, Ph.D.

Cille and Ron Williams Community Chair for Early Childhood Education, University of Nebraska at Kearney

As the Community Chair, Dr. Torquati provides expert leadership and research, helping the Buffett Institute develop initiatives that promote healthy emotional development and strengthen the support systems surrounding young children.

Julia Torquati, Ph.D.

Community Chair in Infant and Child Mental Health

University of Nebraska–Lincoln