Maurice Sykes is an early childhood champion in Washington, D.C. Sykes began his careers as a teacher. This experience undoubtedly fueled his passion for early education, students, and teachers. He later became a teacher trainer, and even a curriculum developer. Sykes is currently the director of the Early Childhood Leadership Institute at the University of the District of Columbia. He author of the book, Doing the Right Thing for Children: Eight Qualities of Leadership . Sykes's book delves into his personal advocacy leadership experiences. Advocacy Focus Throughout his career, Sykes has advocated for the advancement of high-quality, early childhood education in Washington, D.C. One of the challenges Sykes advocates against is inequality in early childhood settings. Sykes advocates for access to high-quality early learning programs for all children. Children that l ive in more affluent areas in th e cit y tend to have better teachers, better facili ties, better leaders. Syk...