Ensuring children are seen and heard is what propels Dr. Elena Merenda. As the Acting Chair of the Early Childhood Studies program at the University of Guelph-Humber (U of GH), she takes great pride in shaping the minds of the next generation of professionals who will work with kids. But what else drives Dr. Merenda? Get to know the kind-hearted, purposeful, adventure-loving leader; here's what she had to say.
Q: The U of GH community may be surprised to know that before you were a leader in the Early Childhood Studies program, you were once a student of the same program. As a youth, what inspired you to pursue an education and a career in studying and working with children?
A: I think my path was shaped by both heartache and hope. When I was 16, my dad died of cancer. I had two younger sisters, 10 and 13. It was a life-altering experience, and through my grief, I realized how much children carry grief silently. I remember thinking: “Why doesn’t anyone see that I’m struggling?” That question started a fire in me. I realized how many children are carrying silent battles, just waiting for someone to notice. I knew, deep down, that if more adults understood how to reach kids—not just teach them, but truly see and feel with them—we could change their world. That became my why. That became my mission.
When I found the Early Childhood Studies program at Guelph-Humber, it was like finding home. It gave me the language, the tools, and the community to turn my pain into purpose. I still remember walking through these halls as a student, full of dreams. Coming back as a leader, 10 years ago, I carry those same dreams—but now I get to help my students bring theirs to life, too.
Q: What’s the most rewarding part for you about teaching the next generation of early childhood professionals?
A: Watching transformation happen—real, meaningful transformation—is the most rewarding part of what I do. Students often enter our program full of questions and curiosity, not always realizing the power they hold. Over time, I watch them uncover their purpose.
What I love most is when students begin to connect the dots between knowledge and heart. When they realize that this work is not just about curriculum or care routines—it’s about relationships. It’s about advocacy. It’s about showing up for children and families with presence and compassion, especially when it’s hard.
There’s this incredible moment when a student tells me, “I didn’t know I could make this kind of impact,” and I get to say, “You already are.” That’s the magic. To witness them grow, and then go out and be the difference for the next generation—that’s the greatest honour of my career.
Q: You’re the founder of the BLOOM Gala, which takes place here at Guelph-Humber and is the only gala honouring early childhood professionals in the Greater Toronto Area. What’s your favourite type of flower and why?
A: To be honest, I’ve never really liked flowers. Their scent brings me right back to my dad’s funeral. He was so deeply loved that the funeral home was overflowing with flowers—so many that they closed it to the public that day and his life was the only one honoured in that building. The smell of flowers was so overwhelming—it’s something I carry with me and the smell of a flower brings me right back to the weight of that loss.
While I shy away from flowers, I love plants. I fill my home with them. There’s something healing about nurturing growth and watching something thrive under your care.
But if I had to choose a flower that resonates with me now, it would be the lotus. Unlike most flowers, the lotus blooms out of muddy, murky waters—and that symbolism speaks to me on a soul level. It’s about transformation, rising through pain, and turning struggle into strength. That’s been my journey, and it’s the essence of the work I do.
So, while I may not love flowers in the traditional sense, I deeply connect to what the lotus represents. It reminds me that beauty can come from brokenness—and that even when the water is dark, we can still rise and bloom.
Q: What are some hobbies you have when you’re not working?
A: Outside of work, I try to fill my time with things that make me feel grounded and alive. I love running and yoga—there’s something about movement that clears my mind and connects me back to my body. I also love getting lost in a good book, wandering through garden centres buying plants I swear I’ll keep alive, and soaking up quiet moments whenever I can.
And here’s something most people don’t know about me—I love getting tattoos. Each one tells a story, a reminder of where I’ve been or what I’ve survived. For a long time, I really struggled with my body. I didn’t treat it kindly. Tattoos have become a way for me to reclaim that relationship—to turn pain into art and to beautify a body I once hated. It’s healing in its own form.
But the heart of my world is always my family. I have three incredible kids who challenge and inspire me every day. Whether we’re laughing over something silly or just snuggled up together after a long day, they remind me of what matters most.
Q: If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be and why?
A: Africa. It’s been a dream of mine since I was a little girl, though I couldn’t tell you exactly why. It’s not one specific country or landmark—it’s a feeling. Maybe it’s something my soul remembers even if I can’t explain it.
But—confession—I have a needle phobia that has kept me from making the trip. I know, I know… it sounds ironic, especially since I love getting tattoos! Somehow, those feel different—maybe because they tell my story and come from a place of empowerment. But the idea of travel vaccinations? That’s where my courage suddenly takes a nap.
Still, I know I’ll get there one day. Africa lives in my heart, and I have no doubt that when the time is right—and I work up the courage—it will be one of those trips that changes me in all the best ways.
Q: Our mascot Swoop gave us a cheerful hoot to say that they’ve been wanting to spend more time with you! What’s your favourite game to play with Swoop and your family that makes you feel like a kid again?
A: My kids and I love playing video games together—it’s one of the ways we connect, laugh, and team up as a little squad. But honestly, our favourite “game” is going on spontaneous adventures. One day, we woke up and decided to get another dog. Another day, we planned a trip to Disney out of nowhere. We take random road trips just to explore somewhere we’ve never been. It’s not always about where we go—it’s about the excitement of the unknown.
I think that sense of spontaneity is such a gift for kids. It teaches them to be open to life, to take risks, and to see the magic in unexpected moments. It builds flexibility, confidence, and lifelong curiosity. So yes, we love video games—but in our family, adventure is the real game we’re always ready to play.
And Swoop, if you’re ever up for a last-minute road trip—you know who to call!