I am a firm believer that we have a responsibility to use our talents, whatever they may be, to leave the world a better place than we found it. As a writer, reader, and lifelong learner, I have such a deep appreciation for the efforts of Wisconsin Literacy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening adult education and literacy across Wisconsin. When they issued a call for volunteer writers in 2025, I immediately jumped at the chance.

In my role as a writer with Wisconsin Literacy, I have the incredible opportunity to connect with folks making a real impact in their communities and highlight success stories from member agencies throughout the state. Leveraging my training as a student reporter (which once earned me a spot on the Michigan Interscholastic Press Association’s All-State Student Journalist Staff), I conduct interviews with literacy agency volunteers, staffers, and students, learning how they promote essential language skills, mathematics courses, job services, and citizenship support, to underserved populations.

The stories I write as a result of these conversations highlight the spirit, determination, and ingenuity of everyone involved in the literacy space. These features live on the Wisconsin Literacy website, are highlighted in their monthly digital newsletter, and are even used in grant application materials.

I cherish the opportunity to amplify these experiences and also enjoy the chance to exercise my journalistic muscles. This is some of the most rewarding work of my career.

Check out some of my favorite pieces here, here, and here.