Child Life Connection's CCLS TEAM
Dr Belinda Hammond, EdD, CCLS, CIMI, Founder, Director of Academic Programming
Belinda has been a Certified Child Life Specialist since 1999 and is current faculty at Eastern Washington University, Texas Woman's University, and California Polytechnic State University (CalPoly), providing academic instruction and advising for students in both graduate and undergraduate Child Life academic programs. With her doctorate in Educational Leadership and a specialization in Social Justice, Belinda has long been an advocate for students and has been involved in the creation of multiple academic and clinical programs, including the Child Life Community Practicum offered virtually since 2020 and the Child Life Connection: Student Forum on Facebook to provide continuing supports for students, a page that has grown to include students from around the globe.
As the founder of Child Life Connection, Belinda has overseen the development of child-friendly spaces in large part thanks to Pepsi Refresh for funding 24 original murals, and to the Oscar Litwak Foundation for their mobile playroom donations. In more recent years, Belinda has transitioned her focus to supporting the creation of academic programs within Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Hispanic Servicing Institutions (HSIs) to support the need for representation in medical care.
Suzan Watkinson, MA, CCLS, CPMT, RWWP, Director of Clinical Programming & Innovation
Suzan holds a Master’s degree in counseling and over 30 years' experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist. Suzan has served as both an Adjunct Professor of Child Life at Azusa Pacific University and as the academic internship supervisor for the Child Life Internship program. Working both domestically and internationally, she has provided Child Life teaching to students overseas, as a Child Life practicum preceptor, as well as provided psychosocial support and mentorship globally with Operation Smile. Suzan has served patients and families in both inpatient and outpatient settings around the US prior to transitioning into the community setting of Child Life work with Child Life Connection.
Sandie (Sandra) Sternberg, M.Ed, CCLS, CPE, Director of Student Education & Outreach
With nearly 40 years of experience as a Certified Child Life Specialist, Sandie is deeply committed to supporting children and families throughout their healthcare and life journeys. Her expertise spans inpatient and outpatient pediatrics, trauma, emergency care, intensive care, grief support, and assisting children of adult patients.
A lifelong learner, Sandie earned her Master of Education in 2023 to enhance her mentorship and educational skills, and she holds a Certificate in Pediatric Palliative Care from the CSU Shiley Haynes Institute, further strengthening her compassionate approach to end-of-life care. As a lecturer at California State University, Northridge, she shares her real-world experience with child development and child life students, helping them navigate the challenges of this rewarding field. She has also served as a clinical supervisor for Child Life United’s Virtual Practicum, offering personalized guidance and support to students.
Passionate about the core values of empathy, knowledge, and care in healing, Sandie is dedicated to empowering students to feel confident, prepared, and inspired in their careers. Respected for her nurturing leadership in both clinical and educational settings, she strives to create a supportive and welcoming space where students can grow personally and professionally. Excited to contribute to Child Life Connection, Sandie is committed to inspiring the next generation of child life specialists, helping them pursue their passion and make a lasting impact on the lives of children and families.