Emily Slusser is a professor in the Department of Child and Adolescent Development at the Connie L. Lurie College of Education. Her research focuses on early childhood cognition and development, particularly the conceptual foundations of math and number skills. Her work includes longitudinal studies of children’s understanding of natural number concepts and comprehensive models of early math achievement. She co-founded the Early Childhood Institute (ECI) and serves as a member of the leadership team. Since its launch in 2019, ECI has made notable contributions to the field of early childhood care and education through research, training and advocacy.