As part of International Literacy Day, the Honourable Andrew Furey, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Honourable John Haggie, Minister of Education are extending congratulations to Krista Stephens, recipient of the 2022 Council of the Federation Literacy Award for Newfoundland and Labrador. Premier Furey and Minister Haggie presented the award to Ms. Stephens at Confederation Building earlier today.
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award was created in 2004 to celebrate adult learners who undertake literacy training, as well as the valuable contributions made by Canadians in the field of literacy, including family, Indigenous, health, workplace, and community literacy. The Award is presented to learners, educators, volunteers, community organizations, and businesses in each province and territory.
After a 26 year gap, Krista Stephens made the courageous and life-changing decision to return to school in 2020. She described her life at the time as full of uncertainty: she was a young mom with limited education, personal challenges, and medical setbacks including significant vision loss. After deciding to pursue her educational goals, Krista demonstrated commitment, drive, determination and a positive attitude, excelling in her studies and receiving her high school equivalency diploma ahead of schedule. Krista is now completing a post-secondary program in Office Administration and Technology, and hopes that her story can inspire others to pursue literacy.
Since 1967, International Literacy Day celebrations have taken place annually around the world to remind the public of the importance of literacy as a matter of dignity and human rights, and to advance the literacy agenda towards a more literate and sustainable society.
In 2019 the Provincial Government released a five-year Adult Literacy Action Plan to help adult Newfoundlanders and Labradorians gain the literacy skills needed to lead healthier, more productive lives and to fully participate in the province’s economy.
During the creation of the plan, employers requested further engagement on issues relating to adult literacy in the workplace. Starting today, private sector employers throughout the province can provide feedback through engageNL.ca on the challenges they face relating to adult literacy, as well as how they can be best supported to overcome these challenges. Submissions will be accepted until September 30, 2022.
Quotes
“On behalf of the people of Newfoundland and Labrador, it is my pleasure to congratulate Krista Stephens on receiving the 2022 Council of the Federation Literacy Award. Ms. Stephens’ drive to achieve her personal goals is an inspiration to all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. She is truly deserving of this recognition.”
Honourable Andrew Furey
Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador
“Literacy development is essential to the future success of the people of our province. We want to support everyone in reaching their potential, and continue to make key investments to expand literacy development. I encourage all employers in the province to participate in our Adult Literacy Consultation, so that we can identify key supports to increase literacy throughout our provincial workforces.”
Honourable John Haggie
Minister of Education
“I’d like everyone to know that no matter how old you are, how many obstacles you face, or how difficult life’s circumstances may be, it is never too late to go back to school. I hope others are inspired to follow their goals.”
Krista Stephens
2022 COF Literacy Award Recipient
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Learn more
The Council of the Federation Literacy Award
Adult Literacy Employer Consultations
News Release: Canada’s Premiers Announce 2022 Literacy Award Recipients
Media contacts
Meghan McCabe
Office of the Premier
709-729-3960, 725-9231
meghanmccabe@gov.nl.ca
Nancy Hollett
Education
709-729-1906, 327-7878
nancyhollett@gov.nl.ca