The Preschool Icon®: How Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris Is Building Empires from the Ground Up

In the heart of Memphis, Tennessee, a quiet revolution is reshaping early childhood education—and at the helm stands Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris, widely known as The Preschool Icon®. With a warm spirit, strategic mind, and unmatched determination, she has built more than a childcare business—she’s ignited a movement. From humble beginnings to leading a multi-million-dollar childcare empire, Dr. Booker-Harris is creating a legacy built on purpose, persistence, and people-first leadership.

Her journey wasn’t linear. “I’ve faced homelessness, bankruptcy, legal troubles, and more business mistakes than I can count,” Dr. Booker-Harris openly shares. Yet every obstacle became a stepping stone. Her resilience, forged through trials, now anchors her commitment to helping others rise. “It’s those tough lessons I’ve learned that I now share, so others don’t have to walk the same difficult road.”

What began as a family-run daycare has become a national blueprint for success. Alongside her husband Todd and their five children, she has built an empire focused on excellence and legacy. Their business model doesn’t just provide care—it nurtures future leaders. “We are creating achievers who will become leaders,” she says. That vision is evident in every corner of her enterprises—from hands-on curriculum to community outreach and mentorship.

Through her Global Preschool Consulting Company (GPS), Dr. Booker-Harris coaches new and expanding childcare providers with a strategic framework to build profitable, sustainable, and impactful preschools. “The industry is saturated and heavily regulated. If you don’t know what to focus on, you’ll burn out before you begin,” she warns. Her mission: to equip providers with clarity, confidence, and proven steps for success. Her GPS blueprint has become a trusted roadmap for childcare professionals nationwide.

Her philanthropic heart beats just as loud. Through Global Children Services, she distributes food to over 400 families, provides utility assistance, funds school drives for over 500 children, and hosts events like the fall Trunk-or-Treat, which welcomes nearly 1,400 families each year. Her work, inspired by her grandmother’s legacy of generosity and wisdom, continues to uplift Memphis and beyond.

Recognition has followed. She’s a recipient of the Drop the Mic Coaching Award, celebrated for launching the Best New Program of the Year, and praised for her humanitarian efforts. But it’s not the accolades that fuel her—it’s the vision of creating safe, enriching environments where children and communities can thrive.

So, what drives her leadership style? “It’s not enough to be in love with childcare,” she explains. “You need a plan and support if you want to become the next success story.” Guided by faith, family, and fierce discipline, Dr. Booker-Harris models consistency, accountability, and compassion in every aspect of her work.

Her message to future leaders is powerful: “Our children deserve leaders who will equip them to thrive in life. Own your story, walk boldly in your purpose, and know that with the right blueprint, you can turn your vision into a legacy.”

As she looks toward the future, Dr. Booker-Harris envisions expanding her consulting firm, launching new educational programs, and continuing to mentor women in leadership. Her goal is clear: to leave a trail wide enough for others to walk through and strong enough to carry generations.

About Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris

Dr. Daphene Booker-Harris, known as The Preschool Icon®, is a childcare strategist, consultant, author, and entrepreneur dedicated to transforming the childcare industry. As founder of Global Preschool Consulting and Global Children Services, she has helped launch successful childcare businesses while providing essential resources to underserved families. With nearly 20 years in the industry, she has overcome immense personal and professional challenges, using her experiences to empower others. Her GPS blueprint equips new and expanding providers with the tools to build sustainable preschools. A devoted wife, mother, and grandmother, Dr. Booker-Harris leads with faith, purpose, and an unwavering commitment to community.