… learning and understanding beyond my own experiences which then opens my mind to other perspectives and viewpoints. This is the key to getting past the barriers that divide so much of our world

I was the Executive Director of Literacy Volunteers of Tucson since June 2002 and I’m now Executive Director of Literacy Connects. I’ve lived in Tucson since 2001 having moved here from Cleveland, Ohio. I’m a social worker and was the Executive Director of a transitional housing program for homeless families for 10 years in Cleveland. I love working in literacy because it is addressing one of the root causes of homelessness and poverty both of which have been my professional focus for 25 years.

I’m also the mother of 2 grown children and the grandmother of 3 delightful, precocious and adorable little boys.

. . . experiences (through books) that I otherwise would never have – a view into the White House during the Civil War; the feel of heat on the feet of the Tarahumara in Copper Canyon in the 1970s; the sounds of San Fransisco in the 1980s.
. . . the soul-soaring fun (through music) of singing something in Italian, German, Spanish or Latin from another century, and having it actually communicate something – often joy – both to myself and the hearer.
. . . the company (through work) of wonderful, noble people who work joyfully to make our world a better place.

The son of a church musician and teacher, and a stay-at-home mom, I went to Tucson public schools in the 60s and 70s. When it was time for college, my sister became a teacher and district superintendent, and I went to Northern Arizona University and got a business degree.After 26 years in business, my department was closed, so I had time to do some great soul searching and eventually now have the opportunity to use my skills for a great organization I really believe in – Literacy Connects.

At other moments each week, I’m . . .
- attending music concerts (Tucson Symphony, UA Presents’ world-class performances, Live from the Met opera in the movie theater);
- singing or playing cello with the church choir;
- enjoying a hike in the desert, or a bike ride along the Rillito;
- working with a trainer to try to forestall the aging process a bit;
- doing recreational cooking;
- or doing dinner parties with my partner at our house.

My partner David, and I have also enjoyed vacations to Europe and the Western United States – where we like to take time and enjoy the beauty of nature. 

the world.

I have over 13 years of leadership experience in development and fundraising with another 5 years experience in sales and marketing. In my early career, I taught high school social studies. I have a Master’s in Industrial Relations with concentrations in training and development, and business. Having been with Literacy Volunteers since October 2006, I love working at Literacy Connects because I see lives transformed through literacy. It is so powerful.

I love camping and making jewelry with my son. I am the resident party planner and am known for my Roulage Leontine (flourless chocolate cake).

…a world of possibilities.

Education and literacy are my passions and I’ve always enjoyed collaborating with others — so working at Literacy Connects is perfect for me!

I have more than 20 years experience in nonprofit management, fund raising and marekting/public relations. Previous experience has included stints at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Tucson, Tucson Newspapers and Child & Family Resources. I have an MBA from the University of Arizona and my undergraduate degree is in Public Relations from the University of Florida.

I co-chair the Marketing Committee of the Tucson Festival of Books and the Youth in Philanthropy Committee of the Association of Fundraising Professionals. I serve on the Awareness Committee for the Coalition arm of Literacy Connects.

My husband of 16 years, Ernie Galaz, has been principal of Holaway Elementary School since 2002 and has spent his entire career serving children at Title One schools in the Amphitheater School District. We are empty nesters who enjoy hiking, traveling and reading (of course) in our free time.

… thousands of children every years who receive the gift of literacy for their doctor.

I have over 30 years of experience developing and promoting health and educational programs.  After graduating from college, I spent several years teaching in secondary education and one year living in Japan teaching English.  I’ve taught tennis and skiing and managed an athletic club in Colorado.  I spent nine years managing the behavioral health services for the Tohono O’odham Nation and was responsible for service delivery to 22,000 members, with a staff of 20 and an annual budget of 1.4 million dollars. Currently, I’m the Director of Reach Out and Read Southern Arizona and coordinate the annual purchase and distribution of 60,000 books to children 0 to 6 years old through 55 pediatric clinics in Southern Arizona.  I’m responsible for clinic expansion, fundraising, writing and maintaining grants totaling $254,000 per year.

I  was born in Tucson, received a BS and BA from the University of Colorado and a Masters in Counseling and Guidance from the University of Arizona.  I currently lives in Tucson with his wife and three children.

…empowerment, possibility and hope.

My background is in both education and communications. I taught bilingual education in California before moving to the Basque Country in Spain, where I taught English for seven years and co-owned a graphic design studio.

In January 2006, I moved home to Arizona and worked as an Account Supervisor in a marketing and communications firm. I then had the fortune of living and traveling in India with Amma, a great spiritual teacher. Upon my return again in July 2009, I joined Literacy Volunteers and now I work as the Director of Communications for Literacy Connects.

I am an avid yogini, practicing and teaching several times a week. My other loves are herbalism, dance, music, backpacking, cooking, gardening, cats and life in general.

…learning! I love learning and I absolutely love watching other people learn–our students, our tutors, our staff…everyone!

I have been in the field of adult basic education (ABE) since 1993. I worked as an ELAA and ABE/GED instructor for 15 years before coming to LVT in January 2009. I have a Masters in Language, Reading and Culture from the University of Arizona where I focused on adult and adolescent literacy. I love my work at LVT because it combines my career in adult education, my knowledge and love of the reading process, and my passion for helping teachers and tutors engage in their own learning! I’m the mother of two young daughters, an occasional violinist, and an avid reader.

…unlimited possibilities!

Originally from Seoul, South Korea, I have resided in Alaska, Washington, and Southern California. Just prior to moving to Tucson, I spent three years in the South Rim of the Grand Canyon, acting as membership program manager for the Grand Canyon Association. Also during my tenure in the South Rim, I worked two seasons as production manager for the Grand Canyon Music Festival. Prior to nonprofit management, I owned a virtual assistant business and have been in the corporate sector for over two decades in a project management, event planning or administrative support capacity. I joined Literacy Connects in September of 2011 and feel incredibly fortunate to be a part of an organization that provides a means for maximizing one’s potential.

… an amazing world.

I have over 25 years of experience in adult education that includes teaching ELAA, Family Literacy, Workplace Literacy, and GED preparation. I was the Adult Education Director of Yavapai College and also worked for the Washington State Office of Adult Literacy. I began my teaching career as a 3rd grade teacher in Maryland and later was a high school reading specialist in Oregon. I have a Master of Education from Seattle University.
Since April 2007 I have had the delightful pleasure of working with LVT, where highly qualified staff work with extremely dedicated volunteers to make a difference in student lives and the community!

…people of all ages who believe in the power of creative expression.

From an early age I’ve had an over-active imagination, a soft heart and a disregard for conventionality. Becoming an artist, educator and entrepreneur was, therefore, a natural fit. In 2002, I co-developed Stories that Soar! with Sonia Teder-Moore and Meg Breshears and by 2004, co-founded the nonprofit SharMoore Children’s Productions to expand the program’s possibilities. Along the way, I earned an Masters in Theatre Education and Outreach, and an Associate in Entrepreneurship from the University of Arizona. My study of the congruent principles of team-based business management and collaborative theatre practices continues to informs my work as a member of the Literacy Connects Management Team and as the STS! Artistic Director. I feel blessed each day to work alongside all the talented and creative people, from all walks of life, who care passionately for our community.

…people, community, diversity

I joined Literacy Connects as a consultant in January 2010, and became an employee in October of that same year. My MBA from Central Michigan University opened the doors for me to work at several Fortune 500 corporations, be a consultant for financial software conversions and a Professor at a small Catholic college. Literacy Connects enables me to apply that education, skills and experiences to support an organization that offers a way to improve the lifes of thousands.

… my own and others’ potential. Literacy expands my mind and my world, connecting me to new ideas, cultures and creative possibilities. Literacy also connects me to many of the daily joys of life: reading to my children, finding a new recipe, exploring spiritual teachings and following the goings-on in the city I love – TUCSON!

I bring twenty years experience in program development, coordination and teaching to the ELAA Program Manager position at Literacy Volunteers of Tucson. Prior to this position, I coordinated the Civics and Citizenship Program at Pima College Adult Education, where I also taught ELAA and family literacy. I have B.A. and M.A. degrees in sociology, with minors in Spanish and popular/experiential education. I am utterly passionate about access to education and have found my lifelong vocation in adult basic education. Originally from Minnesota, I have lived and traveled in Latin America, and have finally thawed out and settled down in the desert. I live in central Tucson with my husband and two beautiful girls. You might see us running our fluffy dog Mika in the Rillito wash or trekking up Tumamoc on the weekends!

… the past, the present & the future!

I’m originally from South Carolina & moved to Arizona in 2009 to live and work at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon. Very different from South Carolina, I very much enjoyed getting to know what living in the West is like! I’ve also lived in Sedona and can’t think of a more beautiful place to call home. I relocated to Tucson in October of 2011 to begin my college career and began working for Literacy Connects in November as a temporary Program Assistant. I’ve since been lucky enough to join the team as a permanent staff member and couldn’t be happier to be connected to such an amazing organization, working with such amazing new friends. I’m excited to be a part of the impact that Literacy Connects will surely make on Tucson & Southern Arizona in the coming years!

…my MacLeod grandmother who introduced me to the classics of children’s literature – Anne of Green Gables, Little Women, The Secret Garden, Alice in Wonderland, The Wizard of Oz and so forth – and I have the great joy in knowing MY daughter has made these and other wonderful books part of HER children’s DNA by reading these books to them.

I’ve always loved reading, so when I decided to retire from the business world, I promised myself I’d volunteer in the field of literacy. Little did I know that my short time tutoring (ELAA) and longer time as an office volunteer at the then-new office at 1948 E Allen Road would lead to a staff position, but that’s what happened. This gives me some longevity with the organization, as my “clock” started ticking in the year 2000. I work three days a week at the front desk handling a variety of tasks, mainly support for the ELAA and BL programs. I retained enough knowledge of Spanish in the gray cells from living & traveling in Latin America many years prior that I can help those folks seeking English class information in their language. My BA is from the University of the Americas which, when I graduated, was located just outside of Mexico City (it is now near Puebla).

… abundance. Literacy provides opportunities to give, to receive, and to positively affect generations.

I have called Tucson my home for 31 years; even when, I have resided elsewhere. My journey has taken me across the United States and back, through elementary education and logistics and juvenile corrections. I was led to LVT in August 2010 to become a basic literacy volunteer. In March 2011, I was hired to coordinate LVT programming in collaboration with the Pima County One Stop Career Center.
I am where I imagined I would be. My destiny has been revealed. I am truly blessed to be a part of the movement to achieve “100% Literacy through 100% Community Involvement.”
I love time spent: with my family/friends, reading, learning or listening to music.

…the world.

I was born and raised in Tucson, AZ. I taught in TUSD for almost thirty years as a classroom teacher and a reading specialist. I had extensive experience working with students who are English language learners. I was a volunteer tutor and trainer for many years with Literacy Volunteers of Tucson before becoming the ELAA Assistant Program Manager. I am passionate about teaching, mentoring and advocating for literacy. I have two married daughters and two wonderful grandchildren. I enjoy traveling, reading and spending time with family and friends.

… people who inspire me. Working with our students, tutors, volunteers, staff and donors has been the most satisfying work I’ve ever done.

I’m originally from Dallas, Texas. My husband and I moved to Tucson in July 2008 and In January 2009, I began volunteering as a tutor. Shortly thereafter, I moved into interviewing and assessing new clients. I joined the staff at LVT in February 2010 and now help run the Basic Literacy program.
I have a BA in Journalism and was a Registered Nurse. As a testament to my belief in ongoing learning, I’m learning Afro-Brazilian dance.

…So many wonderful, affectionate, inspiring people.

I began ELAA tutoring with LVT in 2004 and quickly fell in love with it. I started training ELAA tutors in 2006 and love that too.

I was an elementary school teacher for 13 years and a technical writer for 16 years. I moved to Tucson from the Washington, D.C. area in 1995.

…freedom, empowerment and new horizons.

Originally from Northern California, I have lived in Tucson since 1996. I graduated with a BA in Political Science from the University of California, Berkeley, and studied at the University of Bordeaux during my junior year. My work experience is diverse, having worked in marketing, administration, retail, and fitness. I have also volunteered in various areas, including adult literacy tutoring. I enjoy cooking, exercising and reading. Having raised our boy-girl twins, my husband and I now share our home with Milo, a Rat Terrier.

…generations of people working together to create a better future for our community!

As an unabashed bookworm and a native Tucsonan, I am passionate about education and our community, and I am so happy to have found my place working with Reading Seed and Literacy Connects. I grew up in a home that celebrated reading and storytelling, and know that being able to explore the world – and other magical places! – through books is priceless. I want that for every person in our community!!

I have worked in and with the non-profit sector for over a decade in the areas of behavioral health, youth development, literacy, and the environment. Before coming to Literacy Connects, I worked for Bookmans Entertainment Exchange as their Community Relations Manager and at the University of Arizona coordinating two national positive youth development programs. I love how the programs of Literacy Connects combine my passions and celebrate lifelong learning, individual creativity, and community involvement!

When we aren’t working or reading, my husband and I love spending time with our two amazing daughters and goofy puppies. As a family of game players, we are always on the lookout for the next great board game.

…smiles and signs of success for future generations.

My involvement with children’s literacy started during my undergraduate career at the University of Arizona. I joined Kappa Delta Chi, a community service based sorority which made tutoring at elementary schools an essential component to being a member. During that path, I received job opportunities with after school tutoring programs and mentored children in reading, writing and math. My love in giving back to the community became one of my main priorities. In 2007, I became the first member in my family to graduate from a university and earned my BA degree in Mexican American Studies. Shortly after graduating, I became an AmeriCorps member and served as a student advocate at a local high school. I assisted in the dropout intervention and prevention program and provided students with volunteer opportunities. Supporting students in their academics has helped me build strong partnerships and a love for watching students succeed. Outside of Reading Seed, I am in the music and art scene. I am a DJ and host events that inspire people to create art with a live DJ. I am always in the works of creating, inspiring and helping people see a brighter picture in their lives.

…

About Jeff

…

About Sarah

…my dreams

I learned about the Reading Seed program by a colleague of mine. Food and Education are a few of passions and I’m glad to be involved. I’m in school for Linguistics and International Studies with a minor in math. I try to read a book a week!

…our future!

Hi, my name is Violet Kennedy and I am the new Reading Seed Library Coordinator with Literacy Connects. I’m a children’s book fanatic, and I love sharing my knowledge with others! I help match books with people so they can help others to become better readers or improve their own reading skills. I draw on my experience with children’s books from my 10 years as the “kids book lady” at Bookmans Entertainment Exchange!!

When I first heard about the Reading Seed program, I was amazed by the generosity of so many people giving their time to our future generations! As a mother of a toddler I see every day how important it is to invest time and energy into our future and our community. After living in Tucson for nearly 13 years, I know how important it is to help build a strong community. If I’m not at the Reading Seed library you can probably find me adding to my own library, baking, crafting, gardening or browsing an antique shop all while wrangling a two year old boy!

…the collective visions, aspirations and shared stories of my broader community.

I have worked or volunteered with literacy focused companies and non-profits, nearly continuously, since 1996. I have always loved books and have spent hours upon hours sifting through stacks in libraries and used book stores throughout the Americas.

I wear many different hats depending on the situation whether calling on my many years as a massage therapist and healer; community organizer; academic researcher and writer; occasional experiential educator; grant writer among others. I also love to trampoline and roller skate.

…the imaginations, ideas, and lives of Tucson children!

I became a member of the Stories that Soar! ensemble shortly after moving to Tucson in 2006. I worked with STS! as an actor, stage manger, and project manager, and gladly took the position of production manger when Literacy Connects was formed.

I received my BFA in acting from Oklahoma State University, and have worked extensively as an actor and theatre educator in Oklahoma and Arizona.

Working for Stories that Soar! is incredibly rewarding because not only am I afforded the opportunity to collaborate and create theatre, but I am able to empower Tucson’s children through STS!’ performances.

My job is creative and impactful – it doesn’t get any better than that! I love my job, and am proud to be a part of Stories that Soar! and Literacy Connects.

…new ideas, new possibilities, and new worlds.

I have been an ensemble member of Stories that Soar! since 2003. I have been a teaching artist at lots of Tucson schools, but also the public library, the YMCA, the Tubac Center for the Arts, and a two-room schoolhouse in Forks of Salmon, CA. From 2006-2010 I taught creative drama at Green Fields Country Day School.

I am a proud graduate of the Dell’Arte International School for Physical Theater. I also have an interdisciplinary Master’s degree from the University of Arizona in Women’s Studies with a concentration in Performance Studies. While completing my Master’s degree, I was lucky to have advanced training with Augusto Boal in Theater of the Oppressed, a Freierian-based theater method whereby community members become active participants to create theater that suggests solutions to their own real-world problems. My MA thesis suggested some contemporary adaptations of Boal’s Theater of the Oppressed methodologies.

I have lived, worked and trained with the Tony award-winning San Francisco Mime Troupe. I am a founding member of Tucson’s Las SinFronteras, a youth-driven arts advocacy organization, and I also founded Tucson’s Boys’R’Us performance group and co-founded the BodyMind Theater Group (Boulder, CO). I have worked extensively in theater, including at Pittsburgh’s Acting Company and locally, with Beowulf Alley Theatre Co., Borderlands Theater, The Rogue Theater, Old Pueblo Playwrights, and more. Also, I write plays.