RECAP: 2025 Leading in Literacy Luncheon & Awards
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported our 2nd Annual Leading in Literacy Luncheon & Awards. The event opened with powerful music by Aisha DuBose-Hughes (Lady E-Flat) and featured a deeply engaging conversation led by Dr. Charles McKinney with Erica Armstrong Dunbar and Dr. Gloria Ladson-Billings. Their discussion reminded us that literacy goes far beyond reading and writing - it is tied to identity, access, justice, and opportunity.
We were proud to honor International Paper as this year’s Local Leading in Literacy Champion for their longstanding commitment to children, families, and community learning.
Most importantly, the luncheon highlighted the impact supporters like you make possible, from small-group tutoring and adult learning programs to book distribution and community partnerships that strengthen literacy across the Mid-South.
As we look ahead, we invite you to continue supporting this work in whatever way feels meaningful: partnering, volunteering, sponsoring, or simply sharing our mission with others.
Together, we can expand access to literacy and open doors for learners of every age.
Thank you to our generous sponsors who make this event and our mission possible!
