Deborah Hwang

Program Manager

Deb’s background in Illinois’ early childhood education and care (ECEC) system began at the Governor’s Office of Early Childhood Development. There, she oversaw home visiting projects under Preschool Development Grant Birth through Five. One of her projects focused on implementing coordinated intake processes and strengthening collaborations through the Integrated Referral and Intake System (IRIS) in four communities throughout the state.

Prior to ECEC, she completed clinical social work research on Asian American and immigrant mental health. She also helped create grants at a private foundation and the Asian Giving Circle. Deb is passionate in using her experiences to advance racial equity and systems change at the community level across the state.

Deb completed her undergraduate degree at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and obtained her master’s degree at the University of Chicago Crown School of Social Work, Policy, and Practice.

During her free time, she enjoys running, watching movies, and exploring new restaurants in her neighborhood.