Mayor's Office for Adult Literacy
About Us
Launched under the leadership of Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner, the Mayor’s Office for Adult Literacy (MOAL) focuses on enhancing awareness of the impact that low functional literacy including low digital, financial, and health literacy has on our economy, communities, families, and individuals. MOAL advocates and endeavors to build capacity for adult literacy and adult education causes, providers, and learners.
Oversight of MOAL and its operations is entrusted to the Houston Public Library, 7th largest library system in the country, whose mission is centered on service equity and promoting reading and literacy.
VISION:
The Mayor's Office for Adult Literacy envisions a Houston where every individual can obtain the skills necessary to prosper and reach their full potential.
MOAL Objectives:
MOAL collaborates with a network of adult literacy providers throughout the city to:
- enhance adult literacy advocacy and awareness,
- actively listen to the needs of literacy providers and adult learners in Houston,
- develop professional training opportunities to support literacy providers,
- develop partnerships to leverage resources benefiting adult literacy and workforce development systems,
- advise on public policies that place adults on a pathway to learning and improving their earnings and their lives,
- position adult literacy providers for success in supporting adults and families, and
- support capacity building and help programs work together to improve learner outcomes.
Meet The Team
Federico Salas-Isnardi
Director
To me, Adult Literacy is the great equalizer. Adult Literacy is about access. It is about being able to achieve our goals and help our families and our communities. Improved literacy has a positive impact on jobs and the economy. But, to me, Adult Literacy is fundamentally about human dignity. It is about the regained sense of self-worth and the exhilaration many people experience when they can finally read and realize they too can do it!
Jacqueline Aguilera
Project Manager
Service to the adult literacy community on a city-wide level means advocating on behalf of the providers. My role as a messenger is both personal and an honor because I know first-hand that investing in our AEL programs is the right thing to do for the health of our communities and our city.
Ana Frade
Project Coordinator
I believe that investing in adult literacy is indeed a wise investment in a brighter future for all. Adult literacy empowers individuals to reach their full potential, strengthens communities, and drives economic growth. It is a mutually beneficial situation.
Banke Awopetu
Social Media Specialist
I love using social media to share the stories of Houston’s adult literacy warriors -- the learners, volunteers, instructors, organizations, donors, and advocates inspire me deeply.
Pamela Speed
Technology Supervisor
Adult literacy is the gateway to empowerment, unlocking opportunities for personal growth, economic advancement, and social participation. It's not merely about reading and writing; it's about gaining the confidence and skills needed to navigate life's challenges with dignity and independence. It embodies the belief that learning knows no age limit, and every individual deserves the chance to reach their full potential through education and lifelong learning.
Sven Androk
Digital Navigator
I am deeply committed to enhancing adult literacy through the innovative use of communication and technology. As a Digital Navigator, I strive to bridge the digital divide, empowering learners to achieve their full potential in today's digital world.
Brittnai Brown
Digital Navigator
Adult literacy is more than just words on a page to me; it’s about unlocking potential and fostering opportunities for individuals to thrive. I’m dedicated to supporting adults on their learning journey, knowing that literacy opens doors to a world of possibilities.
Meet The Advisory Board
Mayor's Office for Adult Literacy
Julia Ideson Building550 McKinney Street, Fifth Floor
Houston, TX 77002
