Amy Aceto-Hitchinson has long been recognized for her visionary leadership and entrepreneurial approach to supporting families and strengthening communities through education and nonprofit initiatives. As founder and chief executive officer of The Ivy Academy of Early Learning Inc., she has led the development of a comprehensive early education model that reflects both cultural sensitivity and academic excellence. Her work in a demographically diverse area, including a significant immigrant population, has been instrumental in building trust, encouraging participation and ensuring that local voices are reflected in educational programming.
Ms. Aceto-Hitchinson’s educational background has been vital to shaping her career path. She holds a master’s degree in sociology from National Louis University and earned a bachelor’s degree in humanistic sociology, magna cum laude, from Western Illinois University. She also completed an associate’s degree in child development at William Rainey Harper College. Her academic preparation gave her a nuanced understanding of family dynamics and social systems, knowledge that she has consistently applied to her work in early childhood education, nonprofit administration and community development. In addition, she obtained a nonprofit financial literacy certification from Career Learning in Austin, Texas, further equipping her to lead financially sustainable organizations.
In addition to her work at The Ivy Academy, Ms. Aceto-Hitchinson founded The Ivy Academy of Early Learning II and the North End Youth Center. These organizations reflect her commitment to broadening access to vital services, particularly in under resourced communities. She has championed initiatives such as a financial literacy program and a health initiative focused on fathers’ wellness, emphasizing the essential role of men in the emotional and physical well-being of their families. These efforts demonstrate her ability to respond to real needs with practical, mission-aligned solutions.
Ms. Aceto-Hitchinson’s professional journey began at her family’s business, Betty’s Daycare, where she served as center director. Though she originally intended to pursue a legal career, she returned home at her parents’ request to help manage the center during a time of family hardship. Her experience there, caring for her own child while leading the facility through challenging transitions, instilled in her a deep empathy for others and a strong belief in the power of early education to transform lives.
After the daycare was sold, Ms. Aceto-Hitchinson transitioned into real estate, purchasing and managing multifamily properties in Illinois and assisting homebuyers. Her interest in entrepreneurship led her to work as president of Harrington Builders Inc., a role she continues to hold. She also was area director at ProAuPair, where she supported international caregiver placements, further expanding her expertise in family services and cultural exchange.
Ms. Aceto-Hitchinson is an engaged member of the Forbes Business Council and has contributed articles to Forbes publications. She co-authored “The Parenting Handbook to Children with Disabilities” and was recognized by a neighborhood association for her community contributions. Her work earned her a place among Industry Era’s Women Leaders, reflecting her growing influence in the nonprofit and business sectors. Through her global perspective, innovative thinking and heart for service, she continues to lead with purpose and compassion.