Dr. Robert Sanchez has been appointed as the new Executive Director of Idaho AEYC, bringing with him an impressive blend of leadership experience and a deep-rooted passion for early childhood education. As the former Vice President of Idaho Business for Education (IBE), Dr. Sanchez has played a pivotal role in advancing IBE’s School House strategy, working closely with local public-school administrators and business leaders throughout Idaho to promote early childhood literacy, student achievement, and college/career readiness.

Dr. Sanchez holds a Ph.D. in Educational Leadership and an MBA in Management and Marketing from Northwest Nazarene University, as well as an M.A. in Strategic Studies from the Command and General Staff College of the U.S. Army at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas. His academic credentials are complemented by a distinguished military career, having served as a U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel for 24 years, where he operated at tactical, operational, and strategic levels within the U.S. military and Department of Defense.

A native of Idaho, Dr. Sanchez has a profound appreciation for the values and culture that define Idaho AEYC. He is a steadfast believer in the organization's mission to create an Idaho where all children thrive, and he is enthusiastic about continuing to drive this mission forward. Dr. Sanchez is committed to ensuring that Idaho’s children and families are positioned for success, recognizing the crucial role that early childhood education plays in shaping a child's future.

Outside of his professional life, Dr. Sanchez enjoys spending time outdoors with his wife, Lori, and their children. Together, they enjoy hiking, camping, and exploring the natural beauty of Idaho.