Executive Council
Advanced Education, Skills and Labour
September 8, 2017

Premier Ball Marks International Literacy Day by Announcing Council of the Federation Literacy Award Winner

The Honourable Dwight Ball, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador, today announced Rosalie Simon of St. John’s as this year’s recipient of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award. The announcement coincides with the 50th anniversary of International Literacy Day on September 8 with this year’s theme being Literacy in a digital world.

Without a formal education, Ms. Simon faced many obstacles and decided to improve her circumstances with assistance from the Vera Perlin Society. Later, she enrolled in the Adult Basic Education program and completed Level I at Stella’s Circle and Levels II and III at the Discovery Centre.

Ms. Simon earned a reputation as a dedicated, hard-working student who made incredible progress. Her academic success, increased self-confidence, and willingness to help others made her a role model to her peers. Ms. Simon received her high school equivalency in May 2017 and is considering post-secondary education in the future.

Established in 2004, the Council of the Federation Literacy Award celebrates the valuable contributions made by Canadians in the field of literacy as well as adult learners who demonstrate exceptional commitment to literacy.

Quotes
“I congratulate Rosalie Simon on her many accomplishments and winning the Council of the Federation Literacy Award. Our government recognizes the important role that literacy plays in the full and active participation of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians in all areas of society.”
Honourable Dwight Ball
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador

“Rosalie’s inspiring efforts are a reminder of the importance of education for everyone, including adult learners in this province. Literacy is linked to better social engagement, health outcomes, labour force participation, and economic growth. I commend Rosalie for her decision to improve her skills and her success.”
Honourable Allan Hawkins
Minister of Advanced Education, Skills and Labour

“Going back to school was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made and it feels wonderful to be recognized with the Council of the Federation Literacy Award. Literacy impacts almost every aspect of our lives and improving our reading and writing skills creates new and exciting opportunities.”
Rosalie Simon
Council of the Federation Literacy Award Winner

“Watching Rosalie establish and achieve her academic goals has been inspiring. She is a shining example of how hard work and determination can overcome many of life’s obstacles. We are so proud of her achievements and cannot wait to see what she does next.”
Sarah MacPherson
Instructor, Discovery Centre

“We are delighted to congratulate Rosalie Simon on being named the winner of the Council of the Federation Literacy Award for Newfoundland and Labrador. At Stella’s Circle we see first-hand how improving literacy can transform lives. Rosalie is a shining example of how hard work and dedication can open doors to new opportunities. Congratulations, Rosalie.”
Jessica Lee-Middleman
Instructor, Stella’s Circle

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