Mr. James Cairns is Senior Director for Strategic Engagements and Organizational Learning at the Center on the Developing Child at Harvard University. He leads Center-wide efforts focused on understanding the early childhood ecosystem and the Center’s role in it, including developing strategic collaborations and partnerships and leading efforts to understand and measure the impact of the Center’s work.
He also continues to provide strategic guidance to the Center’s international portfolio and partnerships. In 2023, Mr. Cairns served as an advisor to the Future Hope of Addis Ababa Early Childhood Development Program in developing the strategic and operational plan for the Center of Excellence, Innovation, and Learning.
Prior to joining the Center on the Developing Child, Mr. Cairns served as the Director of Programs at the World Conference of Religions for Peace, and as Director of the Advocacy and Action for Children Program. He holds Master’s degrees in International Relations and Theology from Yale University and a Bachelor’s degree in Government from Harvard University.
