[NLA] learner leadership/NIFL board

[Janet Isserlis]

Colleagues,

  I'm wondering if anyone is aware of the current status and 
composition of the Board of Directors of NIFL.  As VALUE and other 
learner-led organizations have gained expertise in working with 
local, state and national literacy organizations, it seems that the 
time is right for there to be representation of adult learner leaders
within those organizations, and particularly on the NIFL board. 
Archie Willard, former president of VALUE, is one excellent candidate 
that comes to mind.  I would like to see us take up the issue of 
supporting the work of learner leaders, and particularly, hope to see 
NIFL add those leaders to their board.   While there is still no 
shortage of need for qualified  teachers to work with learners, I do 
believe that the number of  learner leaders who are very capable 
advocates has grown and that we  need to recognize, celebrate and 
heed their voices.  In addition to asking out loud about the status 
of the NIFL board, I'm also wondering if others on the list have 
experiences to share around working with adult learner leaders -- and 
especially hope that those leaders will share their own experiences, 
too.
 
Janet Isserlis