Meet Our Staff

Sally Nalven—Director

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I am the Director of the Child Development Center and a professor at Miramar College. I have a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Psychology, a Master of Arts Degree in Developmental Psychology and a Masters Degree in Business Administration. I have been working at Miramar College for over twenty years and love the friendly, caring environment. I have three grown children, a German Shepherd named Hailey and a husband, who is also a professor. My favorite activities are taking hikes, going to the movies, and spending time with family and friends.

Dawn C. Burgess—Professor

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I am the teacher in the Astrogrovers Room. I have a daughter named Madison, a dog named Buddy, and a husband named Stephen, who also teaches. I am a native of Rhode Island. I hold a Bachelor of Science Degree and a Master of Arts Degree in Early Childhood Education and Elementary Education from Rhode Island College. I have doctorate in Child and Youth Studies from Nova Southeastern University. I have been teaching young children for over twenty-three years and Child Development to adults for over seven years. When I am not attending school or teaching, I enjoy camping with my family and traveling to the East Coast to visit my mom, dad, and two brothers.

Carla S. McMullin—Instructional Lab Tech

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I am the teacher for the Sticky Bear Room. I have worked for the Miramar College Child Development for over five years. Before working at the Center, I received my Associate of Science Degree in Child Development from Miramar College. My husband and I have four children and a dog named Keebler. I love going to the beach, taking my dog for a walk, reading and camping with family and friends.

Cynthia Marquez—Instructional Lab Tech

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I am the Gummy Bear Room teacher. I have an Associate of Science Degree in Early Childhood Education. I am a native Californian (SF Bay area). After roaming the country and abroad with my family for nine years, I am fortunate to have settled down in San Diego. My husband, Sal, and I have two daughters, Jessi and Alexis. I love art - drawing and painting. I also enjoy reading, volleyball, and hiking with my family. I look forward to working with each of the children and their families in the Center.

Elizabeth Thomas—Instructional Lab Tech

619-388-7684

I am the Front Desk Lab Technician at the Child Development Center. I have been working for the Child Development Center for fifteen years. I started at the Center as a parent and a student with my son, Najee, who is now a teenager. I was able to obtain my Associate of Science Degree in Child Development while my son attended the Miramar College Child Development Center in my earlier years. My husband, Mike, and I have three wonderful children. I enjoy going to the beach, movies, playing volleyball, basketball, baseball, and cooking.