Advanced Education and Skills
April 5, 2012
Provincial Nominations Open for Council of the Federation Literacy Award
In recognition of literacy as a force for social, economic and personal development, the Honourable Kathy Dunderdale, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, is inviting residents to nominate a literacy leader for the eighth annual Council of the Federation Literacy Award.
“To believe in the power of literacy is to believe in the potential of people,” said Premier Dunderdale. “The Government of Newfoundland and Labrador recognizes the importance of literacy in providing a foundation for prosperity, innovation and growth. This award honours the contributions of individuals and organizations who have strengthened literacy within our communities and province.”
Created by Canada's premiers, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award has been awarded since 2005 in each province and territory. The award recognizes the valuable contributions of Canadians in the field of literacy, including family, Aboriginal, health, workplace and community literacy. Each award recipient receives a Literacy Award medallion, as well as a certificate.
Last year’s winner, Nancy Murphy, who teaches at the Dunfield Park Community Centre in Corner Brook, left high school at the age of 15 to become a full-time parent. Seven years later, she enrolled in an Adult Basic Education program, received her high school equivalency, and went on to earn a Bachelor of Education degree. Last November, she was promoted to Adult Basic Education Level 1 instructor and her own success continues to inspire students.
“Ms. Murphy is a great example of how improvements in literacy skills create more choices for employment and continued prosperity as a province,” said the Honourable Joan Burke, Minister of Advanced Education and Skills. “Our most valuable resource will always be our people, and our government is proud to support initiatives that encourage their success.”
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award recipient will be selected by an independent selection committee and will be notified before the announcement. The award will be presented in the fall of 2012.
Nominations must be received on or before May 7, 2012. To download a nomination form or for more information, visit www.gov.nl.ca/aes/
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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 |
| John Tompkins Director of Communications Department of Advanced Education and Skills 709-729-0753, 728-7762 jtompkins@gov.nl.ca |
2012 04 05 1:00 p.m.