The 2008 Council of the Federation Literacy Award will be presented to a community organization that is advancing literacy in Prince Edward Island.
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award is presented by Canada’s premiers each year in every province and territory. The award recognizes innovative practices and outstanding achievement in literacy.
Premier Robert Ghiz encourages Islanders to nominate an organization for the award before the closing date of May 9. “In Prince Edward Island, we are fortunate to have many people who understand the powerful role that communities play in improving literacy,” said Premier Ghiz. “The award will provide well-deserved recognition to these organizations for the great work they are doing in communities and workplaces. We hope it will also encourage more people and groups to become involved.”
In previous years, the award celebrated the achievements of learners and adult educators. This year, it will honour a community organization that has made an outstanding contribution to literacy in Prince Edward Island.
Past recipients of the Council of Federation Literacy Award include Tommy Gallant, who won the award in 2007 for his accomplishments as an adult learner. Mr. Gallant dropped out of school in grade eight and earned his GED later in life. He went on to receive his Bachelor of Science and Masters of Science degrees. He is now a PhD candidate. Mr. Gallant advocates strongly for literacy and he is a mentor to young people who drop out of school.
Ann Morrison was the second recipient of the award in 2006. She is an outstanding school teacher and an adult educator from Morell. Through her passion for people and learning, Ms. Morrison has helped many adult Islanders to improve their literacy skills and the lives of their families.
Dianne Smith, a Charlottetown business person, was the first recipient of the award in 2005. After Ms. Smith improved her reading skills, she returned to school, earned her GED and became a champion for adult learners and literacy.
For more information on the award and how to submit a nomination, visit www.gov.pe.ca/go/literacy or contact Barbara Macnutt, Department of Innovation and Advanced Learning at (902) 368-6286.