Our Be You at Bright Horizons culture is one of inclusivity where our employees can always feel confident and safe bringing their whole selves to work. During Pride Month (and beyond) we celebrate the vibrant LGBTQ+ community within our company and spotlight individuals that help weave the tapestry of diversity within our centers and corporate offices.

Today, we’re proud to highlight Jackie, a beloved Bright Horizons teacher who recently celebrated her 12th year with us. She has won several awards over the years and was the first person at her center to earn a bachelor's degree through our Horizons Teacher Degree Program.

Hi Jackie! We are excited to learn more about you! What is your current role and how did your career path lead you to Bright Horizons?

Hi there! I am a teacher in our K-Prep room.

I majored in early childhood education in college and worked at childcare centers and afterschool programs for years before finding an opening at Bright Horizons. I’ve been here ever since and just celebrated my 12th year at my center.

That’s great! We are happy to have you at Bright Horizons. Can you tell us a little about your family and hobbies?

I have been married to my wife Katelynn for nearly seven years (Katelynn also works at Bright Horizons now as an EdAssist Project Manager). We have a daughter, Brooklyn, who is a student at my Bright Horizons center and is thriving there! When we are not working, we enjoy spending time together as a family; going on family walks, playing at the park, or signing up for weekend group activities and meeting new people.

Did you “come out” at work/to your coworkers? What was that like for you?

I first came out to co-workers. My wife, Katelynn, sent flowers out of the blue and people thought it was my birthday and they asked me who they were from and I responded “my partner, Katelynn.”

I remember my coworkers saying “aw, how sweet” and “you are lucky!” I knew at that moment I was working at the right place, and from then on, I was very comfortable and never shy about who I was at work.

How do you celebrate Pride Month at home? How do you celebrate at work?

Before we had our daughter, Brooklyn, we would celebrate by watching TV specials and documentaries on LGBTQ+ stories and the history of Pride Month and attend local Pride celebrations. Since having Brooklyn, we have made a conscious effort to include books to be able to have these conversations with her.

How are you able to incorporate LGBTQ+ content in your role/at your center?

The most effective way I have incorporate LGBTQ+ content in the classroom is through age-appropriate books. We also have a “family board” hanging up where I have added my own family picture; it is important to give LGBTQ+ families visibility in this way. When the children ask questions, we talk about how people love who they love and that all families look different.

What do you love about working at Bright Horizons in your current role?

What I love about working at Bright Horizons is the people. They accept me and have become my second family. My daughter is a student at my center, and it is great seeing my coworkers interact with her and care for her. I love the sense of belonging you feel by working here.

How do you feel Bright Horizons celebrates diversity and supports employees of all backgrounds?

I feel very supported by Bright Horizons and we are provided with plenty of information and materials that can help support me when it comes to explaining different make-ups of family to our students.

What does representation and inclusivity at work mean to you?

To me representation and inclusivity at Bright Horizons means that I can be who I want and not have to hide myself. I truly believe if I was not a part of this company, I would not have my daughter. When my wife’s previous company’s insurance declined coverage for infertility, we switched her to mine. We were able to conceive our daughter and after she was born, Bright Horizons also helped cover some of the costs.

Where do you see yourself in the next 2-5 years?

In the next 2-5 years, I see myself still with Bright Horizons. I am hoping to be an Instructional Coach or Assistant Director and would love to move up within the company. I feel that Bright Horizons can take me places!

Want to read more Pride stories? Check out this employee spotlight on Denay!