Literacy Council names Julie Beckham executive director

Julie Beckham has been named executive director of The Literacy Council, a coordinating body that supports learners and literacy service providers in Central Alabama through tutor training, a central toll-free Literacy Helpline and efforts coordinated as part of the Literacy Initiative.

Beckham, who holds an honors communications degree from the University of Alabama with a concentration in advertising, previously served as executive director of the Alabama Lions Sight Conservation Association. She specializes in strategic planning, grant writing, and fundraising through presentations to corporations, civic organizations and community groups.

The Literacy Initiative – “A Regional Plan for Regional Action” – is a regional literacy blueprint for Central Alabama. The goal of the Literacy Initiative, which was developed by hundreds of community volunteers under the leadership of The Literacy Council, is to infuse literacy into all aspects of life, with a vision for a community that is 100 percent literate.

“After a thorough search and selection process, we found a leader whose vision and versatility will enable The Literacy Council to take its next steps forward,” said Literacy Council Board Chair Keith Carter. “Julie Beckham brings to this position a demonstrated record of leadership, professionalism and accomplishment.

“Her dedication, results-oriented attitude and commitment to public service will contribute greatly to our organization,” Carter said. “In particular, Julie and her team will focus in the coming months on Literacy Initiative efforts that expand current programs and address additional areas such as health literacy, financial literacy and literacy for those with learning disabilities.”

Robin Sparks, past chair of The Literacy Council Board of Directors, echoed Carter’s comments. “We are excited to see the organization move to the next stage under Julie’s direction,” she said. “We look forward to keeping the community up to date on our efforts.”

The Literacy Council

Founded in 1991, The Literacy Council’s mission is to support and strengthen organizations that provide literacy services in the Central Alabama counties of Jefferson, Shelby, Blount, Walker and St. Clair. The Council’s efforts include providing resources and referrals by maintaining a toll-free Literacy Helpline that serves as a primary point of contact for individuals seeking literacy assistance. Other Council efforts include training literacy tutors and conducting public awareness campaigns to keep the crisis of illiteracy in the public eye. For more information, contact www.literacy-council.org or 205-326-1925 / 1-888-448-7323(READ).