Literacy Texas Newsletter, August 17, 2026
New Beginnings
Dear literacy friends,
To say that I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together over the course of my time with Literacy Texas would be an understatement. We’ve expanded opportunities for learning and professional development, strengthened partnerships, and elevated the voice of adult education and literacy while also navigating some very precarious times in our field. If I had to be weathering the trenches, I’m grateful to have been there with remarkable literacy leaders like you. Â
As many of you know, I moved into a part-time position last year, and I was so thankful to the Literacy Texas team and the board of directors for allowing me the flexibility to continue serving an organization I love while also allowing me to find the stability and support I needed closer to home. Looking forward, I’m excited to pass the torch to someone who can offer their full attention to this incredible organization. Â
It is my honor to welcome Katie Welch, Ph.D. as the new Executive Director of Literacy Texas. Katie brings an incredible portfolio of experience, including a strong background in educational research, which is critical to our field right now. I know she’ll bring her own vision and leadership to this role while continuing to honor the incredible work that has happened in this organization for almost 50 years. We’re in good hands with her leading the way, and I feel fully confident that the future is very bright at Literacy Texas.Â
I leave this chapter incredibly grateful for all of the people who made this experience meaningful to me. Thank you for allowing me the honor of serving this extraordinary community and for trusting me to represent you in support of this important work. I will always cheer for Literacy Texas and for the remarkable people who serve adult learners.
QUICK POLL!
Thank you for being on Team Literacy,
Dr. Jenny McCormack Walker
Former Executive Director, Literacy Texas
P.S. For those of you who’d like to keep in touch, I’d love for you to connect with me on LinkedIn. I’ll still be working to support this field and already have a literacy research project in the works – you’ll still see me around!Â
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Checked/updated: 8/16/2026
