Ken founded ICRI in 1981 to improve the lives of children and families internationally through technical assistance and consultation, resource dissemination, and the establishment of model projects.

Ken received his child development training at the University of Uppsala in Sweden and his Master’s Degree from the University of California, Berkeley. He earned a Juris Doctor degree from John F. Kennedy University, where he studied juvenile justice and children’s rights. Ken is the author of numerous articles on international early childhood education, child advocacy, and work and family policy issues. Ken served as Chair and member of the California Governor’s Advisory Committee on Child Development for nine years. He was a founding member of the International Family Child Care Association and the World Forum on Early Care and Education, as well as the Vice-Chair of a statewide commission to formulate a strategic plan for child care development in California.

Ken has assisted in the improvement or establishment of more than 300 early childhood care, child and family health, and child abuse prevention programs worldwide. He has been a consultant to the Children’s Defense Fund in Washington, D.C., and has advised the governments of Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, China, Sweden and Ecuador on child and family issues. In addition, Ken has presented over 300 keynotes and seminars to policy makers, executives, and non-profit professionals worldwide.

Ken retired in 2022, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and visionary leadership at ICRI. His contributions will continue to inspire us, and we wish him a fulfilling and enjoyable retirement!