Who We Are

Maria Blanco: Program Director, Early Childhood Initiatives; Maria Blanco is an experienced early childhood specialist. Driven by a desire to help all children reach their potential, she takes pride in building the capacity of systems to provide quality early learning experiences. As an early childhood advocate, her goals include working with communities to increase access to high quality, inclusive early childhood programs and supporting professionals and families to identify developmental concerns as early as possible. In addition to developing, implementing and evaluating early childhood programs, she provides training and technical assistance in early intervention, inclusive practices, and developmental screening and surveillance. Maria represents the interests of children and families with disabilities on numerous state and local boards and commissions. Maria and her husband enjoy entertaining friends, and spending time with their three daughters (the youngest of whom has autism), four grandchildren, and two Australian shepherds.

Erica Mitchell: Teacher Assistant; Erica Mitchell is an experienced early childhood education professional. Driven by a passion for nurturing young minds and supporting child development, she takes pride in providing the best learning environment and developmental support possible. As a Teacher Assistant at the LSU Human Development Center, her goals include earning a degree in Early Childhood Education within the next three years and becoming an Education Coach. In addition to her primary job functions, Erica Mitchell has been recognized by the LSU Human Development Center for her extraordinary commitment to supporting children’s growth and fostering positive learning experiences.

Susie Jones: Lead Teacher for Mixed-Age Classroom

Ture'ssa Higgenbotham

Lead Teacher

Ture'ssa Higgenbotham is a Lead Teacher at the LSUHSC Early Learning Center in the Human Development Center. At a young age, Ture'ssa found her love for children while babysitting young toddlers. Later, Ture'ssa earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Child Development and Family Relations. Ture’ssa has worked with many children for over 21 years including special friends. A native of Kentucky, Ture'ssa is excited to start her new journey at the Human Development Center.

Clarissa Carmouche: Teacher Assistant

Chantol Cochran

Assistant Teacher

Chantol Cochran is a passionate early learning teacher with 5 years of experience, specializing in working with one-year-olds. She believes in the importance of laying a solid foundation during this crucial developmental stage. With a focus on creativity and compassion, Chantol is dedicated to helping her toddlers reach important milestones and express themselves in meaningful ways. As a proud member of the LSU Early Learning Team, she fosters a nurturing and engaging environment for young learners. Outside of her professional life, Chantol enjoys painting, spending quality time with family, and reading, all of which inspire her creativity and commitment to teaching.

Molly Walter

Assistant Teacher

Molly Walter is an Assistant Teacher at the Early Learning Center at LSUHSC in the Human Development Center. She graduated from Southeastern Louisiana University with her degree in Elementary Education. She has worked with children since she was 14 and is excited about growing in her learning and education.

Krystie Magee

Assistant Teacher

Krystie Magee is an Assistant Teacher at the Early Learning Center at LSU Health Sciences Center’s Human Development Center. She brings 17 years of experience in early childhood education along with 7 years of experience in early intervention. She finds working in inclusive classrooms especially rewarding. Krystie is deeply committed to supporting children during the critical birth-to-five stage of brain development. Her goal is to create intentional, fun, and meaningful learning experiences that nurture each child’s growth. Outside of the classroom she enjoys writing, reading, and spending time with her family.