FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kito Jumanne-Marshall
Marketing & Development Manager
(269) 382-0490 ext. 4786
kjumanne-marshall@kalamazooliteracy.org
Breaking Barriers: Kalamazoo Literacy Council and Western Michigan University Host “Literacy Without Limits” Symposium
Uniting the community to expand educational opportunity and improve outcomes.
KALAMAZOO, MI — The Kalamazoo Literacy Council (KLC) and Western Michigan University (WMU) invite educators, advocates, and community leaders to the Adult Literacy Research & Training Symposium on Friday, October 9, from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. at WMU’s Sangren Hall (2050 W. Michigan Ave, Kalamazoo, 49008).
Themed “Literacy Without Limits,” this year’s symposium highlights a powerful partnership dedicated to advancing adult literacy across the region. Attendees will participate in actionable, engaging sessions covering:
- Supporting Dyslexia & learning differences: Practical strategies to empower diverse learners.
- Advanced reading comprehension: Proven tactics to boost retention and confidence.
- Storytelling as a literacy tool: How narrative techniques strengthen skills and open career pathways.
- Volunteer tutor panel: Insights and firsthand experiences shared during the boxed lunch hour.
“We’re thrilled to bring together researchers, practitioners, and community members who are dedicated to transforming lives through literacy,” said KLC Executive Director Michael Evans, and we are grateful to our sponsor, the Kalamazoo Community Foundation, for their support of this unique opportunity to learn from and connect with each other.”
Lisa Garcia, Associate Vice President for External Partnerships at WMU, emphasized the core vision driving the event: “Literacy opens doors to education, employment, civic participation, and true independence. ‘Literacy Without Limits’ reflects our shared conviction that everyone deserves the opportunity and support to reach their full potential. WMU is proud to stand alongside the KLC to bring the strengths of our university and community together.”
The symposium is free and open to the public. Register here by October 2. Virtual option and professional development credit hours are available.
The KLC is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the lives of adults in Kalamazoo County who struggle to read, through free programs designed to strengthen basic literacy skills. The agency offers one on one tutoring and classes in English as a Second Language, Parent Literacy, Health Literacy, Digital Skills, and other services that empower individuals to reach their full potential. To learn more, visit kalamazooliteracy.org.
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