Veena Villivalam, literacy office staffer, Illinois State Library; Pulcherie Kongoue Koffi, LLCC adult education student; Karen Egan, associate director, grants and programs/literacy, Illinois State Library.
An adult learner and a volunteer tutor from the Lincoln Land Community College Adult Education and Literacy program were recently recognized with 2022 Spotlight on Literacy Awards.
Pulcherie Kongoue Koffi and Heidi Wareham were among 20 individuals from across Illinois recognized for their outstanding dedication and efforts by Secretary of State and State Librarian Jesse White.
Kongoue Koffi was honored with the Spotlight on Achievement Award. “Over the past year, Pulcherie has accomplished personal and educational goals, as well as being able to help her family navigate life in Springfield,” said Jamil Steele, LLCC director of adult education and literacy. “She came to the tutoring program when she continued to struggle with her reading, as English is not her primary language. Even though it was a struggle at first, it has been said that ‘Pulcherie has never met an obstacle.’ During her time at LLCC, she has successfully completed the English as a second language program, earned her high school equivalency and a certificate in community health work and is now pursuing an associate degree in human services.”
Tom Huber, literacy program specialist, Illinois State Library; Heidi Wareham, volunteer tutor, LLCC adult education and literacy; Karen Egan, associate director, grants and programs/literacy, Illinois State Library.
Wareham received the Spotlight on Service Award. “Heidi came into the adult education office looking to make a difference,” said Steele. “Heidi has tremendous patience and is very kind, and I knew the perfect learner to pair her with. Heidi didn’t just assist this learner with her English reading ability, but also helped her make real-life changes that will forever impact her and her family. Heidi has been a joy to have as a tutor. Her helpful spirit and willingness to go above and beyond to help the student learn and be a part of the community are what make her such a strong asset to this program.”
“I am honored to congratulate these outstanding adult learners for their hard work and determination to attain lifelong reading and learning skills,” said White. “Many of them have had to overcome great difficulties and obstacles to reach this level of achievement. I am also proud to recognize our outstanding volunteer tutors for their commitment to helping adult learners achieve their highest potential.”
LLCC is seeking volunteers to assist adults in improving their reading, math or English language skills. LLCC Adult Education and Literacy provides free training to potential volunteer tutors. Those wishing to volunteer may call 217-786-2572.
