Jalisa Wilson-Collins did not arrive at her career in early childhood education by accident. It is a path she has been building for years.

A path that has led her to bring resources directly into communities across the state. Now serving as an area coordinator for the Mississippi LIFT Resource and Referral Mobile Unit, she bridges the gap between resources and the communities that need them most. Through Mississippi State Extension and the Mississippi Department of Human Services, Wilson-Collins and her unit deliver face-to-face support and a diverse range of materials, including equipment for creating homemade classroom resources to childcare providers and families throughout the state.

“We can meet people where they are and bring needed resources, learning materials, and support,” she said. “That connection makes all the difference.”

Growing up in Jackson, she first worked with children through a high school capstone project. That experience led to a practicum in an in-home childcare center, where her future began to take shape.

“What started as a project turned into something much bigger,” Wilson-Collins said. “That is when I knew this was the path I wanted to follow.”

She earned her bachelor’s degree in child and family studies from the University of Southern Mississippi, focusing on family relations with a minor in psychology. By 19, she had already stepped into the classroom as a teacher’s assistant. That early start grew into more than 15 years of experience supporting children and families.

Throughout her career, Wilson-Collins has served in roles across Mississippi that have allowed her to provide support to children, families, providers and community agencies. Each experience has strengthened her understanding of the needs of both educators and families. Her work continues to focus on helping children access safe, supportive and enriching environments while ensuring families feel confident in the care they choose.

Wilson-Collins also is continuing her education at MSU, where she is pursuing a master’s degree in early intervention. Her graduate studies have broadened her perspective beyond the classroom and deepened her understanding of how systems and policies shape early childhood services.

“It has expanded my perspective beyond direct service,” she said. “It is helping me understand how decisions at the state and organizational level influence the quality of care and support that children and families receive,” Wilson-Collins said.

For Wilson-Collins, the most meaningful part of her work is the opportunity to build relationships and create lasting impacts.

“My ‘why’ is rooted in creating opportunities, building relationships and making sure families feel seen, supported and valued,” she said