The crew who loves children
Our fabulous Management Team oversees the day-to-day operations of Bright Start Learning Center & Preschool. We are fortunate to have such a talented and dedicated team, and we encourage you to get to know these wonderful ladies.
Greetings! My name is Melissa Swanston, I am the Director of Bright Start Learning Center and previously served as a director at both KinderCare and Children of America. I grew up in New York City, where I studied Early Childhood Education at Brooklyn College. Prior to taking on my first role as a director, I taught preschool and pre-kindergarten while residing in both New York City as well as Northern Virginia. Teaching has always been a passion of mine, and from an early age, I aspired to work with children. I am a proud “boy mom” – my son Jelani attends Bright Start’s virtual hybrid program for school-agers and he loves it! For fun, I enjoy spending quality time with my son, family and friends, being active, reading, interior design and listening to music.
Hello, my name is Cynthia Collier, I am the Director of Operations and Facilities. I have been with Bright Start since the beginning in 2005. I,started as a Teacher Assistant and, over the years, I have moved up the ladder. I, along with my husband David, moved to the area in 2001 from Dayton, Ohio. I have been married to my wonderful husband David for 42 years. I am a proud mom of two, and a grandmother of four! I enjoy travelling, cooking and spending time with my family.
Hello, my name is Liliana Siguenza, I joined the Bright Start family in May of 2019 where I took on the role as a Teacher Assistant, and eventually joined the administrative team. I grew up here in Northern Virginia, and I am currently attending George Mason University. I am pursuing a degree in the education field, with the goal of one day becoming an elementary school teacher. During my free time, I enjoy going to concerts, running and hanging out with my friends.