First-Year Reflections: A Year of Growth, Learning and Inspiration
From the CEO / Dr. Diana Greene
As I reflect on my first year at Children's Literacy Initiative (CLI), I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and inspiration. This has been a great year of learning about CLI and the incredible work we do. Transitioning from being a Super Intendent at a school district to being CEO of CLI has been an eye-opening experience, allowing me to witness the profound impact of our mission firsthand.
I would like to extend my heartfelt appreciation to the board for their unwavering support and guidance throughout this journey. A special thanks to our organization’s founder, Linda Katz, whose vision and dedication laid the foundation for our work. This year marks our 35th anniversary, and our main goal, our north star, has been to honor Linda and Pat and the monumental efforts they undertook to bring Children's Literacy Initiative into being.
Getting to know the organization and living its mission has been an enriching experience. Children’s Literacy Initiative seeks to dismantle structural racism by providing Black and Latinx children with the anti-racist early literacy instruction, support, and advocacy needed to create equity in education. This mission is not just a statement; it is a call to action that resonates deeply with every team member.
Through the great support of the c-suite, the first team, and all team members, I see immense potential in our organization. Visiting all of our portfolios and getting to know our partners has been one of the highlights of my year. The dedication and passion of our staff are truly admirable, and it is clear that their hard work is making a tangible difference in the lives of the children we serve.
Looking ahead, I am excited about the work to come. The journey we are on is not an easy one, but it is a vital one. I am confident that, with the continued support of this team, whether you are on staff, on the board, or a valued supporter of this work, we will achieve great things.
I would also like to express my gratitude to our donors and supporters. Your contributions are the lifeblood of our organization, enabling us to bring our mission to life. Thank you for believing in our vision and for your continued support.
As we move forward, I invite everyone to continue to join us in this important work. Together, we can create a brighter, more equitable future for all children. Let’s keep pushing boundaries, challenging the status quo, and making a difference, one child, one family, one school, and one district at a time.
Dr. Diana Greene
Chief Executive Officer
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