About
MISSION: Literacy Coalition of Central Texas transforms the lives of adults by providing accessible education services and opportunities for economic advancement.
VISION: We envision a community that is 100 percent employable and self-sufficient.
Literacy Coalition Values
Growth: We value the power of continuous growth and development and are committed to fostering an environment where learning is encouraged, progress is celebrated, and challenges are viewed as opportunities for improvement.
Collaboration: We engage with partners to maximize our network of resources, implement innovative ideas, and stay informed about the issues affecting our communities.
Accessibility: We are committed to removing barriers to education and resources for adult learners, ensuring that they have the support they need to fully participate, learn, and grow.
Historical Timeline
The Austin American-Statesman, along with Gary Godsey of the United Way Capitol Area, initiated discussions in 1997 about the need for an organization to coordinate literacy efforts in Central Texas. Community literacy programs provided input, feedback, and direction. The result of the community discussions identified a need for a central point of organization and a shared advocate. The Literacy Task Force of Central Texas was created. Members of the Task Force included national literacy specialist Suzii Paynter of the Christian Life Commission, Lynn Wolfe of the City of Austin, Elise Sillers of the Junior League of Austin, Retta Van Auken of the Austin American-Statesman, Fred Butler of the Community Action Network, Paul Ellis from the local workforce board, and many other community supporters.
The Task Force began to operate from the office of the Austin-American Stateman, with the full support of publisher Mike Laosa. The Task Force gained momentum and, in the fall of 2000, established a fund at the Austin Community Foundation, marking the actual inception of the Literacy Coalition.
2001
Literacy Coalition Founded
Literacy Coalition of Central Texas was founded in response to the need for a centralized location for literacy services.
2006
AmeriCorps Program
Launched the AmeriCorps program to help build capacity for Literacy Coalition and other nonprofits in Central Texas.
2014
English@Work
A one-of-a-kind program that brings customized English lessons to the workplace.
Play and Learning Strategies
Piloted “Play and Learning Strategies,” PALS, to teach parenting and school readiness.
2015
Workforce Infusion
Created a career development program that provides direct job coaching and skill building.
Ascend Center for Learning
Merged with the Ascend Center to provide direct services for adult basic education and high school equivalency.
2017
Social Services
Established the social services department to provide counseling, resource assistance, and other student support services.
2019
IET
Partnered with Austin Career Institute to provide an integrated education and training program for HVAC students.
2022
ESL Services
Expanded the PALS program to include ESL for adults.
2023
Community-Based
Transitioned the organization from a traditional “Brick-and-Mortar” to community based, increasing accessibility and meeting where students they are.
The People behind the SCENES
Meet our team
Our diverse, passionate team is devoted to helping adults improve their lives. Our team’s dedication to the hardest-to-reach adults and those underserved has created pathways to education and economic mobility. Each member’s expertise provides students with the tools, resources, knowledge, and confidence to succeed.
Lisa M. Stewart
CEO
Sarah Forbes
VP of Development & Strategic Partnerships
Lulu Tovar
Director of Career Education
Lindsey Arasanagi
Director of Adult and Family Education
Jennifer Ramirez
ABE Instructor I
Liliana Galvez
Family Education Specialist II
Ruby Morales Escudero
Career Education Specialist II
Veronica Alfalla
Social Services Caseworker I
Brenda Escudero
Family Education Instructor I
Carlos Contreras
Family Education Instructor I
The People behind the SCENES
Meet our board members
Board members are dedicated leaders who help guide the Literacy Coalition. They provide strategic oversight, ensure financial sustainability, and contribute their expertise and resources to support the work. They bring diverse perspectives and experiences and work collaboratively to ensure the Literacy Coalition fulfills its mission.
Seth Winick
Board Chair
Haley Mathews Winick & Kroll LLC
Amy Musgrave Brown
Board Vice-Chair
Texas Education Agency
Tiffany (Tirres) Fernandez
Secretary
Head of Ops & People
Tim Caperton
Treasurer
Susser Bank
Jeff Pinsker
Board Member
University Games
Bryan Lauer
Board Member
Scott, Douglass & McConnico, L.P.
The People behind the SCENES
Meet our funders
Literacy Coalition funders are dedicated to supporting adult education. Their financial support enables the Literacy Coalition to offer low-cost and no-cost services to adult students in Central Texas.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any staff openings?
Literacy Coalition lists all openings on the Open Staff Position page. You can also find open positions on Indeed.
How can I support Adult Literacy beyond financial contributions?
There are so many ways to get involved with adult literacy, including volunteering, tutoring students, and attending events. The Get Involved page offers various ways to support adult literacy.
How do I join the Board of Directors?
We are always seeking exceptional community leaders to join our board. Visit the Open Board Position page to find out more.
Is there a required minimum dollar amount to support Adult Literacy?
Absolutely not! The Literacy Coalition leverages all available financial resources to provide classes, supplies, teachers, and support for our adult students. You can also tell us specially how and where you would like us to use your financial contribution.