Dr. Takiyah Dixon Selected for U.S. Chamber Foundation Master Class on Child Care Solutions

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce Foundation has selected Dr. Takiyah Dixon, Director of Business Resources at the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce, to participate in its Business Leads Fellowship Program Master Class focused on community child care solutions.

Dr. Dixon was chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants nationwide. She joins 32 other chamber of commerce executives, economic development professionals, and association leaders from across the country.

The Business Leads Fellowship Program equips business leaders with the knowledge, tools, and network to tackle critical education and workforce challenges in their communities. This specialized Master Class will focus on addressing the growing child care crisis — a barrier to workforce participation and economic growth in many regions.

​The program kicks off with an in-person session in May 2025 in Boise, Idaho, followed by a series of virtual learning sessions. Participants will connect with national experts, study successful community models, and develop strategies to support local child care solutions.

​“This is an exciting opportunity to learn from experts and collaborate with leaders across the country who are committed to finding real solutions for child care access,” said Dr. Dixon.

"As a single mother and former educator, I understand firsthand how critical access to affordable, high-quality child care is for working families. This issue isn’t just personal — it’s a workforce issue and an economic issue. I’m honored to represent the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce in this national effort to create real, community-driven solutions that support both our families and our local businesses."

Through this program, Dr. Dixon will help build a national community of practice focused on addressing child care challenges, positioning the Lakeland Chamber of Commerce as a local leader in workforce and family support initiatives.