Wilma Robles de Melendez, Ph.D.

Wilma Robles-Meléndez, Ph.D., is Professor of Early Childhood Education and Leadership at the Fischler College of Education & School of Criminal Justice of Nova Southeastern University (Fort Lauderdale, Florida) where she teaches early childhood and leadership courses. Dr. Robles-Melendez has over 25 years of experience as an early childhood educator and teacher educator. Her professional experiences also include having served as a classroom teacher, school principal, regional social studies general supervisor, and state early childhood general supervisor.

As a teacher educator, she has coordinated the development of undergraduate and graduate degree programs in early childhood. Her research focuses on multicultural and social justice issues with attention on children’s immigration issues, children’s social and emotional wellbeing, and culturally responsive practices for children and families. In 2008, she was named as one of South Florida's Women of Distinction.

Dr. Robles-Melendez was one of the 2020 Exchange Leader Initiative awardees, receiving recognition for her leadership in early care and education. An advocate for children and families, she has numerous publications on early childhood diversity and social justice issues. She is an active member of community organizations and early childhood state, national, and international organizations.