Dionne Kirby named new CEO of Literacy Achieves
After a Rigorous Search, the Best Candidate was Found from within the Literacy Achieves Family
Dallas, Texas (July 25, 2022) – Literacy Achieves, a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering immigrant and refugee families through award-winning adult English literacy and early childhood education programs, announced its new CEO today. Dionne Kirby, who previously served as the organization’s Sr. Director of Philanthropy, will succeed Sarah Papert as the organization’s next CEO.
Colleen Taylor, Chair of the CEO Search Committee and Former Board President, says, “After four months of a rigorous search, we found the best candidate in Dionne Kirby. Dionne’s previous work at Literacy Achieves gives her excellent insight into the organization. She checked all the boxes on the leadership qualities we were looking for, and she wowed us with her innovative ideas and passion for the mission of Literacy Achieves. We are absolutely delighted that Dionne will serve as our next CEO.”
Kirby, with over 20 years of education and non-profit experience, says, “I greatly admire the families of Literacy Achieves. The challenge of learning a new language and creating a home in a different country is daunting. I am honored to serve this wonderful organization and contribute my skills as a classroom teacher, program director, and fundraiser. It is an organization that does phenomenal work and means so much to so many.”
Most recently, Kirby has served as Executive Director of Dallas Dinner Table, an organization founded in 1999 which focuses on improving race relations in the DFW metroplex. Kirby successfully raised the organization’s profile by building community partnerships and implementing a corporate revenue strategy. Prior to joining Dallas Dinner Table, Kirby worked at Literacy Achieves from 2017-2021 serving as Adult Program Manager, Associate Director of Development and Senior Director of Philanthropy.
Kirby will officially assume leadership of Literacy Achieves effective August 8, 2022.
# # # #
Literacy Achieves seeks to empower immigrant and refugee families through award-winning adult English literacy, early childhood education and student services programs that are uniquely tailored to support self-sufficiency and well-being of our students, their families, and the greater community. Increased literacy leads to higher earning potential, academic achievement, and confidence to accomplish personal goals. More than 200 compassionate and dedicated volunteers are the front-line heart of our operations by teaching all adult classes and welcoming students with respect, support, and encouragement. As demand for English literacy programs continues to soar, Literacy Achieves will strive to address this critical community need. More information is available at www.LiteracyAchieves.org.