Dr. Raquel Munarriz Diaz, has over 30 years of experience working in early childhood education. She is National Board Certified in Early Childhood. Prior to her appointment as Professor in Residence for the University of Florida in 2009 where she supported teachers earning graduate degrees, Dr. Diaz served as the Miami Science Museum's Project Coordinator where she helped develop and disseminate an early childhood science curriculum.  

Dr. Diaz is the Senior Partnership Manager at the UF Lastinger Center for Learning. Her current role has her highly involved in seeking partnership opportunities with organizations and early learning state systems who believe in supporting the design and facilitation of reflective, job-embedded professional development for educators. Her passion is focused on cultivating Communities of Practice where professionals are empowered to grow in their field through collaborative tools.  

Dr. Diaz serves as an alumni member of the ZTT Fellowship, chair elect of the NAEYC Affiliate Advisory Council and Member at Large for the Florida Association for the Education of Young Children. Dr. Diaz is a first-generation college graduate who strives to inspire the workforce to help themselves and young learners thrive.