Ten years ago, Dr. Darjené Graham-Perez was juggling the challenges of raising a young child while pursuing her doctorate – an achievement made possible with the support of MAAC’s Child Development Program.
In 2014, the Perez family moved from Hawaii to California when Dr. Darjené’s husband, Jonathan, was assigned to Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton. While getting settled in their new community, they spotted a MAAC Head Start trailer and stopped by – beginning a decade-long journey with MAAC.
Their daughter, Karmen, born prematurely with a rare genetic disorder, needed additional care and support. MAAC’s Child Development Program provided speech therapy, personalized learning, and flexibility for the family’s schedule, helping Dr. Darjené balance Karmen’s medical appointments, her own studies, and military life.
Karmen flourished at MAAC, gaining vital language and social skills. Dr. Darjené shared, “She absolutely loved going to MAAC. She learned her ABCs, made friends, and benefited greatly from being with other children.”
Meanwhile, Dr. Darjené pressed forward with her doctoral studies. “Those days were tough for us, without family nearby, but MAAC was a lifesaver,” she shared with GB Magazine. “Knowing Karmen was safe and cared for gave us peace of mind, letting me focus on work, my studies, as well as participate in the MAAC Parent Policy Council.”
In 2018, Dr. Darjené earned her doctorate in Educational Leadership from USC, just as Karmen moved from preschool to kindergarten – two major milestones for their family.
In August, Dr. Darjené concluded her tenure on the MAAC Board of Directors after a decade of dedicated service. Currently, she holds the position of Chief Human Resource Officer at Walden Family Services and serves as Board Chair for Lifeline Community Services. Dr. Darjené also delivered the keynote address at Cal State University San Marcos’ Black Graduation Ceremony, a meaningful highlight of her career as she imparted wisdom to new graduates.
Karmen, now a middle schooler, is passionate about cheerleading, band, and travel – defying the odds and surpassing early medical expectations. Reflecting on their journey, Dr. Darjené beams with pride at Karmen’s achievements, especially seeing her conduct her elementary school band, a milestone once thought unattainable. She recalled, “Doctors always said my daughter could not do certain things but seeing her overcome so many challenges and thrive is beyond words.”
Dr. Darjené credits Karmen’s early education as integral to their family’s success, “MAAC did not just prepare my child for school – it prepared our family for a future we never thought possible.” She is grateful to Karmen’s teachers for their support and encourages educators to remember how their passion and care can make a lasting difference. Her advice for parents: never give up, keep your dreams alive, and bring your children with you on the journey.
