Sarah Stone

Child development scholar and non-profit executive with 20+ years’ experience in program leadership, research, and teaching.

As Founder and Executive Director of Wonderbloom, Utah’s first licensed nature-based preschool, I’ve transformed a vision of equitable, nature-connected learning into a thriving nonprofit organization. Under my leadership, Wonderbloom has grown from concept to full operation, developing innovative outdoor classrooms, and an Equitable Access Initiative that provides scholarships for children in need. Through community collaboration, strategic partnerships, and effective grant development, Wonderbloom continues to expand access to high-quality, nature-based early learning across Utah.

Before launching Wonderbloom, I taught higher education courses in Parenting, Infant Development, and Social Development. I spent over a decade in early intervention and home visiting programs—including Early Head Start—where I developed curriculum, trained educators, and supported families through evidence-based approaches to child development. My academic background includes a Ph.D. in Marriage, Family, and Human Development from Brigham Young University, where my research explored empathy development in early childhood. I’ve published in peer-reviewed journals, presented nationally on topics such as nature learning, risky play, and attachment to nature.

Currently, I serve on several statewide advisory committees, including the Early Childhood Utah Advisory Council, Every Kid Outdoors Stakeholder Committee, and Care for Kids Advisory Committee. I believe collaborating across sectors strengthens Utah’s systems of care and education for young children.

I was honored to be recognized as one of Utah Business Magazine’s “30 Women to Watch” (2025), I’m committed to bridging developmental science and environmental education to empower the next generation of learners, families, and change-makers.

PhD Marriage, Family, and Human Development - Emphasis in Early Childhood and Nonprofit Management