Washtenaw Literacy Appoints New Executive Director
Amy Goodman brings passion for literacy and proven non-profit leadership track record to Washtenaw County organization
(January, 2009) - Dynamic non-profit leader Amy Goodman has joined Washtenaw Literacy as Executive Director. Washtenaw Literacy, a Washtenaw County-based organization, focuses on helping men and women improve their reading, writing and English-as-a-second-language skills. Ms. Goodman brings more than eighteen years of leadership experience to her new position.
"Amy's energy and passion are just what we need to lead us through these challenging economic times, where we're seeing an increased demand for our services in our community," said Carolyn Dyer, president of the Washtenaw Literacy board of directors.
Ms. Goodman was most recently executive director of the Ann Arbor School for the Performing Arts, the county's largest nonprofit arts employer. During her tenure, the school's enrollment increased from just over 200 to more than 1200 students. Additionally, she dramatically increased the donor base and developed important community relationships and partnerships. Similarly as Founder and Executive Director of the Youth Philharmonic Northwest in Redmond, Washington, Ms. Goodman started from the ground up, writing and successfully implementing a business plan.
Ms. Goodman holds degrees from Michigan Technological University, the University of Minnesota, and the University of Washington. She is an active community volunteer.
"I'm excited to join Washtenaw Literacy," said Ms Goodman. "The significance of defeating illiteracy is growing in lockstep with efforts to address economic redevelopment. I am committed to the mission and delighted to have this opportunity to serve the citizens of Washtenaw County."
About Washtenaw Literacy
Washtenaw Literacy's purpose is straightforward: we help adults change their lives through literacy. Our organization has over 35 years experience in helping men and women improve their reading, writing and English as a second language skills.
Our core program is one-on-one tutoring. This is the approach our first volunteer tutors used in 1971. The reason we still use it today is because it works. Over 90% of adults in our one-on-one tutoring program reach one or more of their goals. Part of this success stems from our "designer tutor" approach. We train each of our volunteer tutors to plan lessons according to the learner's strengths, needs and goals. Adult learners in our program are motivated because they are setting, and meeting, their own standards for success.
This focus on individual goals makes our program unique in the county. Washtenaw Literacy is a critical part of our community's educational continuum. Someday we hope to have no need for our services. Until then, we'll support our volunteer tutors as they help low-literate men and women improve their skills and their lives.
