Media Coverage

Press Release
Date: February 26, 2025
Contact: Victoria Novak, victoria.novak@greenvilleliteracy.org

Greenville County Recognizes Greenville Literacy Association with Proclamation Ahead of
60th Anniversary Luncheon

Greenville, SC – Greenville Literacy Association (GLA) is honored to receive an official
proclamation from the Greenville County Council in recognition of its 60 years of service to
adult learners in the community on March 4, 2025. This proclamation acknowledges GLA’s
unwavering commitment to empowering adults through literacy, GED preparation, college and
career navigation, and workplace literacy programs. The recognition comes as GLA prepares to
celebrate this milestone at its 60th Anniversary Luncheon on Thursday, March 13, 2025, from
12-2 p.m. at Thornblade Club.

Presented by Jim and Carol Aston, the luncheon will bring together community leaders,
educators, supporters, and students to reflect on six decades of dedication to adult education and
economic mobility in Greenville County.

“The Greenville County Council’s proclamation is a powerful testament to the life-changing
work that literacy, workforce development and collective impact provides in our community,”
said Victoria Novak, GLA Executive Director. “For 60 years, GLA has been a beacon of hope
and opportunity, helping adults achieve their educational and career goals. This luncheon is not
just a celebration of our past—it’s a rallying call for the future, as we continue to expand our
reach and impact.”

The event will feature live entertainment by acclaimed spoken word artist Moody Black, and a
keynote address from executive coach and leadership expert Mark Mathia. Carol Clarke, award-winning journalist and community leader, will emcee the celebration.

As part of the anniversary festivities, GLA will honor outstanding individuals and organizations
whose dedication has strengthened the mission of adult literacy. The proclamation from
Greenville County Council underscores the vital role GLA plays in ensuring that all adults have
access to education, workforce readiness, and brighter opportunities for the future.

GLA invites the community to attend, support, and invest in the future of adult education.
Sponsorship opportunities and individual tickets are available. Proceeds from the luncheon will
directly support GLA’s programs, ensuring that adult learners continue to receive the education
and support they need to thrive in the workforce and beyond. To purchase tickets or to sponsor
the event, visit https://greenvilleliteracy.org/upcoming-events/60th-anniversary/ or email Ellen
Lane at ellen.lane@greenvilleliteracy.org.

In the state of South Carolina, one in five adults read at or below the third-grade reading level,
and in Greenville County alone, it is estimated that nearly 40,000 adults ages 25-64 lack a high
school diploma and more than 20,000 adults cannot speak English fluently. GLA provides
education and college and career skills services to adults who strive to complete their GED,
become fluent in English, and earn a workforce readiness certificate. GLA serves all students no
matter their learning or income level.

About Greenville Literacy Association

Founded in 1965, Greenville Literacy Association is one of the most comprehensive and
successful community-based adult literacy programs in South Carolina. With a mission to
improve literacy and promote lifelong learning, GLA provides free and low-cost education
services, including GED preparation, English as a Second Language (ESL), and workplace
literacy programs based in Greenville, South Carolina. GLA’s mission is to increase the literacy
and employability of adult learners through education where all adults can grow and thrive.
To learn more, visit greenvilleliteracy.org