A Message from Interim CEO John Nichols

Written By Andrew Mueller

Dear Friends and Partners,

As I prepare to pass the baton, I want to take a moment to share my heartfelt gratitude for your partnership and support over this past year. Together, we’ve achieved so much—and it’s been an honor to serve alongside you in advancing literacy across our community.

Over the past several months, Literacy Mid-South has strengthened its foundation and deepened its impact in meaningful ways:

  • Organizational Growth: We’ve aligned staffing, enhanced internal systems, and invested in professional development to support our team and sustain our mission for years to come.

  • Community Outreach: Through efforts like the Raleigh Literacy Fund, Book Vending Machines, and neighborhood-based literacy programs, we’ve expanded access to books and learning resources where they’re needed most.

  • Strategic Partnerships: We’ve continued building bridges between schools, nonprofits, and local businesses—collaborations that connect classrooms, families, and the workforce to literacy at every stage of life.

  • Literacy Development: Tutor901 celebrated its fourth year, reaching more than 1,000 students across 10 schools. Programs like Lit Bags and SummerBoost brought learning into homes during summer months, helping families keep reading momentum strong.

  • Sustainability & Recognition: We’ve secured major grants, including a $6 million EIR (Education Innovation and Research) award and the prestigious Library of Congress Literacy Award, and maintained the generous support of partners like the Urban Child Institute and International Paper.

There is so much more to celebrate, but these few milestones not only highlight the hard work of our staff but also the belief and collaboration of each of you. Your support continues to make it possible for Literacy Mid-South to thrive, evolve, and expand opportunities for learners of all ages.

I am so proud of what we’ve accomplished together—and deeply confident in the bright future ahead under new leadership. Thank you for walking with us on this journey and for everything you do to champion literacy in the Mid-South.

With appreciation,
John Nichols
Interim CEO
Literacy Mid-South

Andrew Mueller
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Literacy Mid-South CEO Transition Announcement