Children First proudly announces that Arianne Roberts, LMHC-QS, IMH-E®, Early Childhood Mental Health Specialist, has been selected for the Greater Sarasota Chamber of Commerce 2026 Adult Leadership Class. Children First is a nationally recognized Program of Excellence.

Through her participation in the Leadership Class, Arianne underscores her dedication to community advancement, innovative solutions, and outstanding leadership. Members of this prestigious class are selected for their notable accomplishments and their capacity to help shape Sarasota’s continued growth and success.

In her role at Children First, Ms. Roberts promotes the well-being of young children and their families by translating complex mental health concepts into practical strategies. She holds a Master’s in Clinical Psychology from the University of Central Florida and a B.A. in Psychology from New College of Florida, along with credentials as a Qualified Supervisor (QS) and the Infant and Early Childhood Mental Health Endorsement (IMH-E®). She is certified in Circle of Security Parenting and Classroom Facilitation and was recognized by SRQ Magazine as a 35 Under 35 honoree for her leadership and community impact.

“Arianne’s selection is a wonderful acknowledgment of her drive to support children and families in ways that strengthen our entire community,” says Philip Tavill, CEO of Children First (Leadership Sarasota Class of 1993). “She brings deep knowledge, compassion, and a collaborative spirit to every aspect of her work. We look forward to seeing all she accomplishes as part of this year’s Leadership Sarasota class.”

About Children First:

Founded in 1961 and having been ranked in the top 1% out of over 1,800 Head Starts nationwide, Children First strengthens children and families by improving the quality of their lives through a comprehensive approach to development, education, health, and well-being. At multiple sites throughout Sarasota County, Children First offers full-day preschool, infant and toddler care, and nutrition and health care assistance to children ages birth to five years old from low-income families. Through Children First, the children receive the social and cognitive skills needed to enter kindergarten and elementary school on track. For more information, call (941) 953-3877 or go to childrenfirst.net.

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