Jessica Campbell has been named as the founding director of the new early learning center at Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples (CMON), with her tenure beginning on September 8, 2025. The center is expected to open in August 2026.
Campbell brings over twenty years of experience in education and nonprofit leadership. Her most recent position was Executive Director at Fun Time Early Childhood Academy, where she managed a significant expansion from one to four locations, increased enrollment capacity from under 100 to more than 350 children, and grew the organization’s annual budget substantially.
Her background also includes two decades with Collier County Public Schools, where she served in various roles including teacher and principal. She led the launch of Collier County’s first virtual school in 2020 and guided Avalon Elementary School through notable improvements.
“Jessica’s experience, vision, and passion for ensuring all children have access to high-quality early learning make her the perfect leader to bring our early learning center to life,” said Jonathan Foerster, CEO of CMON. “Her leadership will help us create a one-of-a-kind educational environment that blends traditional classroom instruction with the power of play and exploration.”
Campbell is a native Floridian who holds degrees in education from Florida Gulf Coast University and completed an executive program at Harvard Business School. She is also a graduate of Greater Naples Leadership and participates actively in local initiatives supporting children and families.
“I am honored to join CMON at such an exciting time,” said Campbell. “The early learning center represents a bold step forward for early childhood education in our region, and I look forward to working with families, educators, and community partners to ensure every child has the foundation they need to thrive.”
The new facility will offer full-day programs throughout the year for PreK3 and PreK4 students. The curriculum will combine hands-on museum activities with lessons focused on preparing children for kindergarten. Scholarships are planned for eligible families so that access can be broadened within the community.
Renovations for the $3.1 million project are scheduled to begin in October under Owen-Ames-Kimball as contractor using designs by MHK Architecture and Planning. The work will transform former administrative areas into six classrooms designed for approximately ninety students.
Further information about CMON’s Early Learning Center can be found at cmon.org.
