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Executive Council
Education
September 8, 2011

Prestigious Literacy Award Presentation
Marks International Literacy Day in Province

Nancy Murphy of Corner Brook was officially presented with the Council of the Federation (COF) Literacy Award for Newfoundland and Labrador during a special ceremony held today, International Literacy Day, at the Dunfield Park Community Centre in Corner Brook.

“This year’s award recipient is a true literacy leader and an inspiration for all adult learners in this province devoted to furthering their education” said the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador. “Ms. Murphy is an excellent example of how to overcome the challenges and obstacles faced by people who have had their education interrupted, for whatever reason. It is certainly fitting that this award is being presented on International Literacy Day, and I offer my personal congratulations to Ms. Murphy on this outstanding achievement.”

Ms. Murphy left high school at the age of 15 to become a full-time parent. Seven years later, she enrolled in the provincial Adult Basic Education (ABE) program where she received her high school equivalency. She went on to earn a Bachelor of Education degree and began working at the Dunfield Park Community Centre as a Homework Haven and Teen Haven teacher. Last November, Ms. Murphy was promoted to ABE Level 1 instructor.

“Strong literacy skills ensure people and communities prosper,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Education. “As an ABE student who went on to become an ABE teacher, Ms. Murphy’s knowledge and accomplishments will benefit not only the students she teaches at the Dunfield Park Community Centre, but the entire community.”

Established in 2004, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award recognizes outstanding achievements in literacy in provinces and territories throughout the country. The award is presented annually to an individual who by his or her skill, capability, education, position or accomplishment, has demonstrated leadership capabilities which have contributed to the advancement of adult literacy.

As a teacher, Ms. Murphy said she simply wants to encourage and motivate her students.

“I knew there was more out there and I could do better for myself and my son,” said Ms. Murphy. “Now I keep telling my students that nothing can stop them. They can achieve whatever they want.”

Since 2004, $48 million in new funding has been allocated by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador to help adult learners strengthen their literacy skills.

For more information on the Council of the Federation Literacy Awards, visit www.councilofthefederation.ca/literacyaward/literacy.html.

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Media contacts:

Glenda Power
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960
glendapower@gov.nl.ca 
Milly Brown
Press Secretary
Office of the Premier
709-729-4304, 631-8477
millybrown@gov.nl.ca 

Heather May
Director of Communications
Department of Education
709-729-0048, 697-5061
heathermay@gov.nl.ca
 

2011 09 08                                                                         11:15 a.m.

 
 
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