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About Us
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Executive DirectorAmanda Edwards Amanda describes her first awakening to the issues of literacy when she worked in a college admissions office. “I had to assist a father in understanding a student loan application and the large amount of debt he was about to undertake,” she reflects. “That experience called me to be part of the solution for non-readers. I know learning to read will help not just one person – but an entire family and an entire community. I like knowing that I’ve had a part in that success.” Prior to the Literacy Council, Amanda was Executive Director and Volunteer/Public Relations Coordinator for Friends of Literacy in Knoxville, TN. She received her undergraduate degree in Mass Communication from UNC-Asheville and a master’s degree in Public Administration from the University of Tennessee. Amanda serves as the president-elect of the Association of Fundraising Professionals – Western North Carolina Chapter and is on the Board of Directors of the North Carolina Literacy Association. Outside the Literacy Council, Amanda leads a busy life with her husband, Derek who teaches high school math, and son, Wade. She is an active sports fan, enjoys baking, and names To Kill a Mockingbird as her favorite book. She is a certified fitness instructor and teaches group fitness classes in her spare time.
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The BookBy Fred Chappell Poet Laureate Emeritus of North Carolina
It waits as patiently as a forest trail To take you to a place you must have heard about, Quiet and exciting, a glade to be alone in, With those who came before. At first the journey is one slow letter at a time, But sooner than you thought, you clip along, Your pace growing smarter with each step.
You never arrive at an end Because you never want to, And a thousand other trails lead off from this one path, Mysterious, inviting, alive with shadowy light.
The book will go with you as far as you desire. And if you like, I will come with you. |
Amanda joined the Literacy Council in 2004 as Executive Director and brings over nine years experience in adult education and non-profit management to her leadership role. Her energy, enthusiasm, and professionalism are reflected in accolades from our community describing the Literacy Council as a well-managed, highly respected organization. During her tenure, Amanda has increased fundraising activities and income of the Council by 60% and continues to expand the variety of literacy programs, services, and resources offered.
