Literacy Network works with full-time and part-time employees, interns, and hundreds of volunteers each year. We have an actively engaged board of directors that helps guide and support our work.
Volunteer tutors come from a variety of professional backgrounds and attend Literacy Network’s tutor training before being matched with adult students. Staff members listed below keep regular hours at the Literacy Network office (701 Dane Street, Madison) to offer support to other employees, volunteers, advocates, and visitors.
Interested in joining the Literacy Network team?
Literacy Network Staff
Ezi Adesi
Director of Omega School
Ezi oversees the programs of Omega School of Literacy Network, including GED/HSED and Spanish GED/HSED programs. He supports instructional staff, advises students, and sustains and develops community relationships.
phone: (608) 817-5975
phone: (608) 817-5975
Jenny Burwell
Donor Relations Manager
Jenny engages and supports Literacy Network's individual donors, family foundations, and corporate sponsors.
phone: (608) 268-3177
phone: (608) 268-3177
Leanne Chan
Director of ESL Tutoring
Leanne oversees ESL tutoring programming at Literacy Network. She manages the Community Literacy program, which houses Literacy Network's ESL internships and provides ESL tutoring.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ex. 55
phone: (608) 244-3911 ex. 55
Bex Fabrizio
Director of ESL Group Instruction
Bex manages and teaches in our Public ESL Group Classes and Community English program, which collaborates with community partners to support ELL families.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 100
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 100
Chloe Fang
Financial & Administrative Specialist
Chloe supports fiscal and administrative functions for Literacy Network’s operations.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1012
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1012
Lisset Flores-Hernandez
Student Services Coordinator
Lisset welcomes visitors to Literacy Network, answers phones, and offers academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1013
Margaret Franchino
Marketing & Events Manager
Margaret coordinates Literacy Network's fundraising and marketing activities and events.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 95
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 95
Veronica Gomez
Student Services Coordinator
Veronica welcomes visitors to Literacy Network, answers phones, and offers academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 30
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 30
Kenza Haddad
Student Services Coordinator
Kenza welcomes visitors to Literacy Network, answers phones, and offers academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 85
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 85
Autumn Jackson
Grants Manager
Autumn manages grant submissions for continuing and new funding opportunities and oversees grant reporting across programs.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1002
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1002
Yenny Juarez Reyes
Office Manager
Yenny is responsible for management of Literacy Network’s facilities. She also welcomes visitors to Literacy Network, answers phones, and offers academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 90
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 90
Therese Kattner
GED/HSED Instructor
Therese provides GED/HSED instruction and student intake support for Omega School of Literacy Network.
phone: (608) 256-4650
phone: (608) 256-4650
Megan Kennedy
Transitions ESL Instructor & Program Manager
Megan manages our Transitions ESL program, including teaching in the Transitions group class and co-facilitating the Transitions work group. She also teaches ESL group classes.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1007
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1007
Marie Knibbe
Director of ABE & GED Instruction
Marie oversees Adult Basic Education (ABE) programming at Literacy Network, including GED/HSED, Essential Literacy, and Transitions Tutoring programs.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 35
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 35
Ena Langendijk
Refugee Services Manager
Ena manages services for refugees, serving as both the first contact and continued support for refugee referrals as they work toward continued education and increased employability. She also teaches in our ESL group class programs.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 10
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 10
Dolores Lease Beaster
Citizenship Program Manager
Dolores provides instruction and develops curriculum for Literacy Network’s Citizenship program. She also coordinates records and reporting for the grants that support the program.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ex. 45
phone: (608) 244-3911 ex. 45
Caitlin Mackesey
Director of Program Impact
Caitlin provides support and direction to the Citizenship, Refugee, and Student Services programs and staff. She also maintains and enhances the organization's data management systems.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 20
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 20
Carolina Molina Campos
Spanish GED/HSED Instructor
Carolina provides Spanish GED/HSED instruction and student intake support for Omega School of Literacy Network.
phone: (608) 256-4650
phone: (608) 256-4650
Alejandra Muñoz Contreras
Student Services Manager
Alejandra manages Literacy Network’s enrollment processes and Student Services staff. She and her team welcome visitors to Literacy Network, answer phones, and offer academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 75
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 75
Alejandra Perez Montes
Student Services Coordinator
Alejandra welcomes visitors to Literacy Network, answers phones, and offers academic support and advising to Literacy Network students.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 80
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 80
Jennifer Peterson
Associate Director
Jennifer provides direction and support to all Literacy Network programs and Program & Student Services staff.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 25
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 25
Caitlin Pueschner
Workplace English Instructor & Program Manager
Caitlin provides instruction and partnership coordination for our adult ESL workplace literacy program. This includes creating a custom curriculum, teaching classes at the work site, and evaluating student progress. She also recruits new partnerships and serves as a liaison between partners, students, and Literacy Network.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1006
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1006
Robin Ryan
Executive Director
Robin is responsible for the overall direction and operation of Literacy Network. Starting this role in December 2022, she supports and collaborates with board, staff, community partners, and other key stakeholders to strategically maintain and build impactful programming for Dane County adults working to enhance the quality of their lives. Robin brings over 20 years of experience working in government and nonprofit leadership.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 15
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 15
Ilana Seidman
ESL Instructor
Ilana teaches in our ESL group class programs.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 40
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 40
Mona Soltani
Director of Student Engagement
Mona is responsible for creating a Student Advisory Board. She directs and supports our Student Services Department.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1005
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 1005
Jill Stendahl
Volunteer Manager
Jill recruits, screens, and places volunteers throughout our programs. She also manages the Personal Tutoring program.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 70
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 70
Robb Sunde
GED/HSED Instructor & Program Manager
Robb provides GED/HSED instruction and student intake support for Omega School of Literacy Network. He also develops curricula and manages grant data reporting.
phone: (608) 256-4650
phone: (608) 256-4650
Marie Wilder Lareau
ESL Instructor Manager
Marie teaches many of our group ESL classes. She also supervises LTE ESL Instructors.
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 50
phone: (608) 244-3911 ext. 50
Board of Directors
Tana Elias
Board President
Library Director, Madison Public Library
“Literacy Network uplifts the lives of thousands of learners in our community and empowers them to achieve their literacy and life goals, from learning how to support their children in school to applying for jobs or advancing their careers. I'm honored to support and champion the efforts of the dedicated staff, students, and volunteers as a member of the Board of Directors.”
“Literacy Network uplifts the lives of thousands of learners in our community and empowers them to achieve their literacy and life goals, from learning how to support their children in school to applying for jobs or advancing their careers. I'm honored to support and champion the efforts of the dedicated staff, students, and volunteers as a member of the Board of Directors.”
Doug Keillor
Board Vice President
Labor Relations Consultant
Doug, who earned his HSED after dropping out of high school and went on to serve as Executive Director of Madison Teachers Inc., shares, "My academic background instilled in me an appreciation for the multiple paths needed to provide opportunities for us to reach our full potential."
Doug, who earned his HSED after dropping out of high school and went on to serve as Executive Director of Madison Teachers Inc., shares, "My academic background instilled in me an appreciation for the multiple paths needed to provide opportunities for us to reach our full potential."
Ryan Smith
Board Treasurer
AVP, The Park Bank
"Leveling the playing field has always been what I’m most passionate about. Literacy is a major component to poverty and the programs offered by Literacy Network greatly help people improve their situation."
"Leveling the playing field has always been what I’m most passionate about. Literacy is a major component to poverty and the programs offered by Literacy Network greatly help people improve their situation."
Melissa Burchell-Dogra
Board Member
Director of Legal, Hy Cite Enterprises
“I have always had a special interest in assisting the immigrant community. I initially volunteered with Literacy Network as a 1:1 English tutor beginning in 2008 and until 2010. Literacy Network has grown and expanded so much since the last time I volunteered - English as a Second Language, Literacy, GED and Citizenship classes are all a very robust offering to our community. It’s a strong organization that excels at the services it provides; it is very exciting to serve on its Board."
“I have always had a special interest in assisting the immigrant community. I initially volunteered with Literacy Network as a 1:1 English tutor beginning in 2008 and until 2010. Literacy Network has grown and expanded so much since the last time I volunteered - English as a Second Language, Literacy, GED and Citizenship classes are all a very robust offering to our community. It’s a strong organization that excels at the services it provides; it is very exciting to serve on its Board."
J. Corkey Custer
Board Member
Retired from Custer Burish Financial Services
“Literacy is the first step to almost every ambition a person could have, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that is so effective at giving people the chance to achieve it.”
“Literacy is the first step to almost every ambition a person could have, and I’m proud to be part of an organization that is so effective at giving people the chance to achieve it.”
Cecilia Gillhouse
Board Member
Chief Operating Officer, MMG Law LLC
"I bring both professional experience and a deeply personal connection to Literacy Network’s mission. As an immigrant who has directly benefited from educational opportunities, I understand how powerful access to literacy can be."
"I bring both professional experience and a deeply personal connection to Literacy Network’s mission. As an immigrant who has directly benefited from educational opportunities, I understand how powerful access to literacy can be."
Shannon Krueger
Board Member
Director, Legal Operations; TruStage
"Having worked with ESL learners for many years, I am consistently inspired by their dedication and resilience. Learning a new language in a new country is one of the most challenging transitions a person can face, and I find purpose in helping create a warm, welcoming environment where learners feel supported and empowered."
"Having worked with ESL learners for many years, I am consistently inspired by their dedication and resilience. Learning a new language in a new country is one of the most challenging transitions a person can face, and I find purpose in helping create a warm, welcoming environment where learners feel supported and empowered."
Stephanie Le
Board Member
Design Strategist; Restaurateur, Little Palace and Ha Long Bay
"During the time I have spent with Literacy Network, first as a tutor, then Group Leader intern, and now, member of the Development and Marketing Committee and Board of Directors, I only continue to be more and more inspired by the determination and dedication of this organization’s learners and those that lead the way for the great work being done in our community. I look forward to continuing to support the values, objectives, and mission of Literacy Network, an organization which helps to enhance the lives of so many in Dane County."
"During the time I have spent with Literacy Network, first as a tutor, then Group Leader intern, and now, member of the Development and Marketing Committee and Board of Directors, I only continue to be more and more inspired by the determination and dedication of this organization’s learners and those that lead the way for the great work being done in our community. I look forward to continuing to support the values, objectives, and mission of Literacy Network, an organization which helps to enhance the lives of so many in Dane County."
Mark Pilarski
Board Member
Retired Business Executive
"I think it is wonderful and exciting to be part of the learning experience. In the 1-on-1 teaching experience one can have an immediate and powerful impact on the formation of ideas and perspectives. As a student, I have felt that impact from a few great minds I have been fortunate enough to be associated with. As a tutor, I am just hoping to be able to communicate some of the excitement of learning that I have experienced.”
"I think it is wonderful and exciting to be part of the learning experience. In the 1-on-1 teaching experience one can have an immediate and powerful impact on the formation of ideas and perspectives. As a student, I have felt that impact from a few great minds I have been fortunate enough to be associated with. As a tutor, I am just hoping to be able to communicate some of the excitement of learning that I have experienced.”
Quentin Riser
Board Member
Assistant Professor, UW-Madison
"I am drawn to Literacy Network’s student-centered approach and its tangible, life-changing impact in the Dane County community. I see this as an opportunity to give back and help support others on their learning journeys, while collaborating with a passionate and mission-driven team."
"I am drawn to Literacy Network’s student-centered approach and its tangible, life-changing impact in the Dane County community. I see this as an opportunity to give back and help support others on their learning journeys, while collaborating with a passionate and mission-driven team."
Kate Rohach
Board Member
Chemist II, Wisconsin State Laboratory of Hygiene
"As an immigrant and English language learner, I deeply value the role Literacy Network plays in supporting adult learners. Volunteering here has transformed my journey, and I am eager to give back by serving on the board. I want to help shape the future of Literacy Network so that more students feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their goals—just as I have."
"As an immigrant and English language learner, I deeply value the role Literacy Network plays in supporting adult learners. Volunteering here has transformed my journey, and I am eager to give back by serving on the board. I want to help shape the future of Literacy Network so that more students feel seen, supported, and inspired to reach their goals—just as I have."
Maritza Sanabria
Board Member
Manager, Digital Health, Navitus Health Solutions
"As a seasoned professional and the child of immigrants, my commitment to literacy is rooted in my lived experience. I have seen firsthand how language access opens the door to better employment, higher wages, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the American financial system."
"As a seasoned professional and the child of immigrants, my commitment to literacy is rooted in my lived experience. I have seen firsthand how language access opens the door to better employment, higher wages, and the ability to navigate the complexities of the American financial system."
Lucas Sczygelski
Board Member
Associate Attorney, Boardman Clark
"I believe that literacy, in addition to being a foundational skill in the modern labor market, is a human right that should be available to all regardless of national origin, socioeconomic standing, or citizenship status."
"I believe that literacy, in addition to being a foundational skill in the modern labor market, is a human right that should be available to all regardless of national origin, socioeconomic standing, or citizenship status."
Lynn Silverman
Board Member
Retired
“I strongly believe in the work that Literacy Network is doing and would like to contribute to this agency’s continued growth and mission.”
“I strongly believe in the work that Literacy Network is doing and would like to contribute to this agency’s continued growth and mission.”
Lindsay Stephan
Board Member
Senior Vice President of Development, Boys and Girls Clubs of Dane County
"Literacy skills and accessible programming have the power to bring individuals together and open doors for new opportunities. I am proud to support the Literacy Network's life changing services they provide within the Greater Madison area to encourage and enhance literacy skills for individuals who are eager to learn and reach their full potential."
"Literacy skills and accessible programming have the power to bring individuals together and open doors for new opportunities. I am proud to support the Literacy Network's life changing services they provide within the Greater Madison area to encourage and enhance literacy skills for individuals who are eager to learn and reach their full potential."
Jeff Stoltman
Board Member
Retired Computer Engineer and Technical Marketing Professional
“From my first tutoring session with an adult student, I’ve come away from each and every session inspired by the commitment, dreams, fortitude and plain old hard work of each student as they balance their school with family and job responsibilities along with other challenges in life.”
“From my first tutoring session with an adult student, I’ve come away from each and every session inspired by the commitment, dreams, fortitude and plain old hard work of each student as they balance their school with family and job responsibilities along with other challenges in life.”
Seth Umbaugh
Board Member
Teaching Faculty, The Writing Center, University of Wisconsin-Madison
"Literacy Network provides crucial support to adult learners and removes barriers to participation in the greater Madison community. As a volunteer board member, I'm proud to work with Literacy Network to increase access to education and promote life-long learning"
"Literacy Network provides crucial support to adult learners and removes barriers to participation in the greater Madison community. As a volunteer board member, I'm proud to work with Literacy Network to increase access to education and promote life-long learning"
Seynabou Youm
Board Member
Legal Counsel, Nelnet
"Growing up bilingual and having the opportunity to study different languages has been an enriching experience. My language skills have benefited every aspect of my life. Reflecting on my experiences, I recognize that my support system and access to literacy have been crucial in creating numerous opportunities for me. I am eager to contribute to an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers, and being part of such a meaningful and empowering initiative."
"Growing up bilingual and having the opportunity to study different languages has been an enriching experience. My language skills have benefited every aspect of my life. Reflecting on my experiences, I recognize that my support system and access to literacy have been crucial in creating numerous opportunities for me. I am eager to contribute to an organization dedicated to breaking down barriers, and being part of such a meaningful and empowering initiative."
