Roberts’ position with Head Start program focuses on well-being of young children and their families
Arianne Roberts, an early childhood mental health specialist with Children First in Sarasota, has been selected for the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 Adult Leadership Class, Children First has announced.
“Children First is a nationally recognized Program of Excellence,” a news release points out.
“Through her participation in the Leadership Class, Arianne underscores her dedication to community advancement, innovative solutions, and outstanding leadership,” the release explains. “Members of this prestigious class are selected for their notable accomplishments and their capacity to help shape Sarasota’s continued growth and success,” the release notes.
In her role at Children First, “Roberts promotes the well-being of young children and their families by translating complex mental health concepts into practical strategies,” the release points out.
She holds a master’s degree in clinical psychology from the University of Central Florida and a Bachelor of Arts in psychology from New College of Florida, the release adds. Further, she has earned credentials as a Qualified Supervisor (QS), plus the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement (IMH-E®), it notes. Roberts also is certified in Circle of Security Parenting and Classroom Facilitation, and she has been recognized by SRQ Magazine “as a 35 Under 35 honoree for her leadership and community impact,” the release notes.
“Arianne’s selection is a wonderful acknowledgment of her drive to support children and families in ways that strengthen our entire community,” said Philip Tavill, CEO of Children First (Leadership Sarasota Class of 1993), in the release. “She brings deep knowledge, compassion, and a collaborative spirit to every aspect of her work. We look forward to seeing all she accomplishes as part of this year’s Leadership Sarasota class.”
Founded in 1961 and having been ranked in the top 1% out of more than 1,800 Head Starts nationwide, “Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being,” the release explains. “At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children from birth to age 5 who have low-income families.
For more information, call 941-953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net