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    “A Steel Magnolia”: Remembering Linda B. Gambrell, Past President of ILA and Distinguished Scholar

    By Colleen Patrice Clark
     | Aug 12, 2024

    Gambrell_LindaLinda B. Gambrell, professor emerita in the Eugene T. Moore School of Education at Clemson University and a past president of the International Reading Association (IRA, now the International Literacy Association, ILA), died on August 5, 2024, at the age of 82. Considered a towering figure in the literacy field, Gambrell’s contributions as a researcher, educator, leader, and friend leave an indelible mark on the profession and the countless lives she touched.

    Her career was one of dedication, innovation, and quiet leadership. As Kathy Headley, emerita professor of literacy and senior associate dean at Clemson University, and a past president of ILA, aptly described, “Linda B. Gambrell was a steel magnolia. Gambrell possessed her own leadership style for supporting our beloved field of literacy. With her quiet energy, she guided three key literacy organizations as president. Her caring outreach touched the many lives of family, friends, colleagues, students, and teachers. She made a meaningful impact and will be missed.”

    Gambrell began her career as a public school teacher, later becoming a reading specialist. Her passion for literacy motivated her to pursue a career in higher education, which eventually led to her serving as principal investigator at the National Reading Research Center and associate dean for Research in the College of Education at the University of Maryland, College Park (which is where she earned her bachelor’s, master’s, and PhD in Elementary Education). She joined Clemson University in 1999, where she taught undergraduate and graduate courses in literacy, continuing to inspire the next generation of literacy educators.

    Her research—particularly in the areas of reading comprehension, literacy motivation, and the role of discussion in teaching and learning—has been pivotal in shaping modern literacy instruction.

    Lesley Mandel Morrow, distinguished professor at Rutgers University and also a past president of IRA, highlighted Gambrell’s exceptional contributions: “Linda was a distinguished scholar with her research, teaching, publications, and work with professional organizations. She was a very hard worker and very modest about her accomplishments. She ranks among the most important scholars ever in the field of literacy. She was a wonderful mentor and a true friend.”

    Gambrell’s organizational leadership extended beyond her 2007–2008 presidency of IRA; she also served as president of the Literacy Research Association (LRA) and the Association of Literacy Educators and Researchers (ALER). She was inducted into the Reading Hall of Fame in 2004, which is a testament to her outstanding contributions. Further testament to her influence, Gambrell was the 2011 recipient of ILA’s William S. Gray Citation of Merit and the 2012 recipient of LRA’s Oscar S. Causey Award, which are both akin to lifetime achievement awards.

    It was Gambrell’s research on reading motivation that was particularly influential, providing insights that continue to shape literacy education today.

    She was a prolific writer. Gambrell coauthored several key books, including Lively Discussions! Fostering Engaged Reading and Maximizing Motivation for Literacy Learning: Grades K–6. She also served as coeditor of essential books such as Best Practices in Literacy Instruction and Improving Comprehension Instruction: Rethinking Research, Theory, and Classroom Practice. Her peer-reviewed articles, such as “Creating Classroom Cultures That Foster Reading Motivation” and “Seven Rules of Engagement: What's Most Important to Know About Motivation to Read,” are frequently cited and have guided educators in fostering a love for reading among students.

    Beyond her scholarly achievements, Gambrell was known for her warmth, kindness, and unwavering commitment to her students and colleagues. Kathleen Roskos, professor of education at John Carroll University and a coauthor with Gambrell, remembered her as someone who was not only an excellent researcher but also a welcoming and friendly presence: “Linda is remembered not only for her excellent research work and many contributions to the literacy field but also for her winning smile and friendly manner toward everyone. She always made you feel so welcome.”

    Jacquelynn Malloy, associate professor at Clemson University, shared a vivid memory that encapsulates Gambrell’s graceful presence: “Linda was always a vision. Whether gardening or house cleaning or presenting at a conference, she was beautifully outfitted for the job,” she said. “I remember once when we were at a conference, she broke out a lovely turquoise, flowing sundress that she got on sale from Belk. She was always a bargain shopper and Gallant-Belk was her ‘go-to’ store. There was always a bit of a stir whenever Linda walked by, but I have such a fond memory of walking with her through a conference hotel hallway in that flowing dress with her silvery hair just so, and people just parting and stopping to watch as she passed. I just smiled and thought that I, as does anyone who had the honor of knowing Linda, knew that we were in the presence of someone quite remarkable. She was my advisor, my mentor, and my friend. She lives in my heart.”

    Susan Neuman, professor of childhood and literacy education at New York University and a frequent collaborator with Gambrell, including coeditor of ILA’s Reading Research Quarterly from 2011 to 2017, shared similar sentiments: “She never lost her southern roots. You could see that southern charm at work in her presentations, her mentoring of other scholars, and even in her role as coeditor of Reading Research Quarterly. She was a generous and insightful scholar, a true consensus builder. She will be missed.”

    Victoria J. Risko, professor emerita at Vanderbilt University and a past president of ILA, noted that Gambrell’s leadership in ILA was marked by her dedication to engaging and supporting literacy professionals worldwide. “As a leader, serving on ILA’s Board of Directors and as ILA’s president, Linda was dedicated to engaging and supporting literacy professionals around the world. As a caring friend to multiple members of ILA, Linda’s memory will be cherished.”

    Barbara A. Marinak, dean and professor of reading in the School of Education at Mount St. Mary’s University, shared a personal reflection: “Linda was my doctoral advisor at the University of Maryland (UMD). She was also my friend, mentor, and hero. In addition to her tireless dedication on behalf of her graduate students, Linda was a visionary leader in our field. Linda was funny, optimistic, and celebrated life. As such, she coined a name for Dr. Jacquelynn Malloy and me. We were and always will be the DOLs (Daughters of Linda). This loving and generous reference comes from the fact that I was Linda’s final doctoral defense at UMD and Jackie was her first defense at Clemson. We are proud to bookend her esteemed career at these two institutions.”

    For many, in addition to being recognized as an impactful scholar, Gambrell was a role model. MaryEllen Vogt, professor emerita at California State University, Long Branch, past president of IRA, and current president of the Reading Hall of Fame, summed it up: “For me, Linda Gambrell was a model of what a professional woman in our field could be. She was bright and beautiful, with her heart planted deeply in the classroom, as she focused her research on motivating both reading teachers and the children they taught. An exceptional literacy leader, she was strong and fearless, but she also enjoyed a good laugh. She will be missed.”

    Peter Afflerbach, professor emeritus at the University of Maryland, also described Gambrell as fearless.

    “I had the privilege of working with Linda at the University of Maryland for 15 years, and I always thought of her as the quintessential steel magnolia,” he said. “Fiercely dedicated to her students, to children, to the idea of research informing practice, and the idea of literacy for all. All wrapped in her good graciousness.”

    In addition to being a staunch advocate of students, Gambrell will always be remembered as a fierce supporter of educators.

    “She advocated for curriculum and instructional decision making that honored the voices of literacy educators,” said Risko, who recalled powerful words from Gambrell’s Best Practices in Literacy Instruction. “Linda’s advice continues to be as extremely important in 2024 as it was in 2007: ‘Optimal literacy teaching and learning can only be achieved when skillful, knowledgeable, and dedicated teachers are given the freedom and latitude to use their professional judgment to make instructional decisions that enable students to achieve their full literacy potential.’

    “As literacy educators,” Risko urged, “we must carry this advice forward.”

    Colleen Patrice Clark is editor of Literacy Today, ILA’s member magazine.

    Linda B. Gambrell, professor emerita in the Eugene T. Moore School of Education at Clemson University and a past president of the International Reading Association (IRA, now the International Literacy Association, ILA), died on August 5, 2024, at...Read More
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    How Is It August Already?

    By Wes Ford
     | Aug 09, 2024

    Is it just me, or does summer seem to fly by faster every year? For educators, it can feel especially fleeting—blink and you're back in the classroom! With summer winding down, let's take a moment to recap some of ILA's exciting happenings from summer 2024.

    The 2024/2025 ILA Board term began

    The 2024 ILA election results were announced back in May, but July 1 marked the first day of the three-year terms of the new Board members-at-large Sonja Ezell, Delilah Gonzales, and Katina Zammit. At the same time, the Board had a shift in leadership with the newly elected Dana A. Robertson starting the three-year leadership trek in the role of vice president. This year, ILA Board is being led by President J. Helen Perkins, with Kia Brown-Dudly remaining for her final year on the Board in the role of past president. Congratulations to our new Board members!

    Nominations for ILA’s Board are always open, but to be considered for the 2025 election, nominations must be received by December 21 of this year.

    2024 ILA Awards & Grants winners announced

    This year, ILA proudly awarded nine awards and grants to ten outstanding individuals and teams, recognizing their exceptional contributions to literacy education. Of special note is the Diane Lapp & James Flood Professional Collaborator Award, given to a deserving two-person team. To learn more about these remarkable recipients and their achievements, check out our previous blog post.

    Let me extend a special congratulations to Patricia A. Edwards, recipient of the 2024 William S. Gray Citation of Merit—ILA's most prestigious award. Pat's dedication to the field, particularly evident during her recent tenure as senior editor of The Reading Teacher, is truly inspiring. It's been a pleasure collaborating with her on various ILA projects, and this recognition is richly deserved!

    Announced the new editorial team of the Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy (JAAL)

    Speaking of changes to journal editorial teams, we recently revealed the new team of editors for JAAL. During this transition period, the outgoing team will use their final volume year to finish any curated issues, publish invited content, and wrap up the articles they have already accepted. Meanwhile, the new team will settle into the process and begin accepting manuscripts for publication in 2025. With the new team comes new goals and priorities for the journal.

    ILA HQ does not influence the content of the journals—other than to require that the teams maintain the gold standard of academic publishing: the double-blind review of research. Each editorial team is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to the task and use their unique voices to add their mark to their journal’s storied history. You can support the new team’s vision for JAAL by becoming a reviewer or writing for the journal.

    And to our outgoing team, Judith Franzak, Koomi Kim, Heather Porter, and Matt Sroke, it has been a pleasure working with you. Thank you for your contributions both to JAAL and to the field of literacy education.

    The 2025 ILA Grants & Awards opened

    Soon after the announcement of the awards winners and grant recipients, we announced the slate of awards and grants available in 2025. The nomination forms and submission documents for the next cycle have been posted. If you have a few free days before summer break ends, spend a little time to nominate colleagues or yourself for recognition, or you can apply for one of our grants to support your research.

    A plethora of professional learning opportunities

    We've had some great digital events this summer—and throughout the entire year! Back in January, we kicked things off with Dyslexia for a Day, a truly eye-opening experience. Lori Oczkus started our summer series in June with her ILA Webinar Guiding Writers: Engaging Scaffolds for Powerful Results. We then partnered with the United States Board on Books for Young People (USBBY) for Promoting Understanding With International Literature, where we revealed the ILA 2024 Children's and Young Adult Book Awards winners.

    And just last week, we hosted the ILA Webinar: Literacy Strategies for Deaf and Hard of Hearing Students. Our presenters, Crystal Cook and Dequita Crockett, provided invaluable information and resources for supporting this often-overlooked student population. It was truly inspiring to see ILA continuing to expand its reach and champion inclusivity in literacy education.

    And also a summer sale!

    Don't forget, ILA is currently running a special promotion on registration for three ILA Webinars released just before summer: Four Actions to Design Tailored Reading Instruction, A New Model for Teaching Phonics, Reading, and Writing, and Knowledge Building as the Foundation of Literacy Learning. Each webinar is packed with valuable insights, and you can access them at a discounted rate if you know the secret code (it’s summersale).

    There’s plenty of summer left

    There's still plenty of summer left, and we have a ton of exciting events and initiatives planned to keep the learning going strong. Join us for From Facts to Fascination: Using Nonfiction to Drive Curriculum and Enthusiasm with  Patricia Newman and Kirsten W. Larson on Tuesday, August 13. Heidi Anne Mesmer is presenting Time in Text: Differentiating Instruction for Intermediate Students Struggling With Word Recognition on August 27. We've got big plans for International Literacy Day, which officially is on Sunday, September 8, but will be observed on Monday, September 9. And we're launching an ILA SmartBrief, which will deliver the latest literacy news right to your email.

    And there's even more to come! Keep an eye out for additional events and initiatives coming later this year. You won't want to miss it!

     
    Is it just me, or does summer seem to fly by faster every year? For educators, it can feel especially fleeting—blink and you're back in the classroom! With summer winding down, let's take a moment to recap some of ILA's exciting happenings from...Read More
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    The University of Texas at Tyler’s Reading Specialist Program Receives Highest Honors From the International Literacy Association

    By ILA Staff
     | Jul 17, 2024

    NatRec_Tyler_1200wThe International Literacy Association (ILA) announced this week that The University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) was awarded National Recognition With Distinction for its MEd Reading Specialist Program. This honor follows the university’s initial National Recognition status earned earlier this year and further signifies its exceptional commitment to excellence in literacy education and preparing the next generation of educators.

    National Recognition With Distinction is awarded to exceptional licensure, certificate and endorsement programs for reading/literacy specialists, and elementary/intermediate classroom teachers that not only meet but exceed the rigorous standards set forth in ILA’s Standards for the Preparation of Literacy Professionals.

    After an institution earns National Recognition, it may be invited, depending on its review, to participate in a comprehensive site visit and in-depth interviews with faculty, staff, current students, and alumni. UT Tyler’s program demonstrated exemplary performance in these evaluations, earning this latest distinction—which is the highest institutional honor awarded by ILA.

    “We are thrilled to receive National Recognition With Distinction from ILA,” said Gina Doepker, associate professor of literacy education and program coordinator of the MEd program. “This accolade reflects our dedication to providing top-tier education and training for future literacy specialists. Our continuous efforts to enhance our program have been validated, and we are immensely proud of this achievement.”

    J. Helen Perkins, president of the ILA Board of Directors and chair of the ILA Commission on National Recognition, expressed her admiration for UT Tyler’s accomplishment.

    “UT Tyler’s National Recognition With Distinction status illustrates their exceptional commitment to advancing literacy education,” she said. “Their program’s outstanding quality and dedication to developing proficient literacy specialists highlight the university's leadership in the field. This honor is well deserved and speaks volumes about their innovative and effective approach to teacher preparation.”

    UT Tyler now stands among an elite group of institutions recognized by ILA for their teacher preparation programs. Other universities that have received National Recognition With Distinction include Grambling State University, Sam Houston State University, University of North Georgia, and West Virginia University.

    Learn more about ILA National Recognition and National Recognition With Distinction, and see a complete list of recipients.

    The International Literacy Association (ILA) announced this week that The University of Texas at Tyler (UT Tyler) was awarded National Recognition With Distinction for its MEd Reading Specialist Program. This honor follows the university’s initial...Read More
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    ILA Names New Editor Team for Journal Of Adolescent & Adult Literacy

    BY ILA STAFF
     | Jul 08, 2024

    The International Literacy Association (ILA) announced today the appointment of a new dynamic and diverse editorial team for the Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy (JAAL), the field’s foremost peer-reviewed journal dedicated to learners ages 12 and up. Composed of renowned scholars and practitioners in the field of literacy education, this team brings together a wealth of experience and expertise to lead the journal into its next chapter.

    The editorial team for the 2024–2028 term is as follows: 

    Castek_w150

    Jill Castek, professor in the Department of Teaching, Learning, and Sociocultural Studies, University of Arizona

    Claravall_w150_2853506.jpg

    Eric Claravall, associate professor in the Teaching Credential Branch, California State University, Sacramento


    Junco_w150_2853619.png

    Eric Junco, director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Northern Illinois University’s College of Education

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    Jung Kim, professor of literacy and cochair of the Department of Education, Lewis University

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    Michael Manderino, associate professor in the Curriculum and Instruction Department, Northern Illinois University

    The team’s vision is grounded in a commitment to social justice, critical literacies, and civic engagement. Their shared interests include disrupting challenges and injustices in literacy practices, deconstructing ideologies, amplifying silenced voices, and fostering the exchange of global and local knowledge.

    “We are a multi-institutional, multi-racial, and multi-cultural team that represents a multifaceted team,” the team stated. “Collectively, we embrace literacies as inclusive, expansive, empowering, and centered on praxis. We will call attention to the erasure of the contributions from, and ingenuity within, educators and communities that have been historically excluded and marginalized.”

    In addition to encouraging multiple perspectives, the team’s goal is to embrace a transformative approach to literacy—a pluralistic view that empowers learners of all backgrounds.

    In the coming years, they plan to prioritize critical issues such as culturally responsive pedagogies, adult and family literacy, assessment and data-driven instruction, literacies in social movements, and the role of artificial intelligence in literacy development. By spotlighting these issues and engaging with a diverse range of authors, the journal will continue to serve as a leading resource that meets the real-world needs of today’s literacy practitioners and researchers.

    The incoming team’s four-year term is effective July 15, 2024, and concludes June 30, 2028. Their first year overlaps with the final year of outgoing editors Judith Franzak, Koomi Kim, and Heather Porter of Salisbury University.

    JAAL provides high-quality, classroom-tested ideas as well as reflections on literacy trends, issues and research. The reach and influence of the journal is extensive. JAAL had 450,000 article views in the last year and has a circulation of more than 6,500 academic institutions.  

    The International Literacy Association (ILA) announced today the appointment of a new dynamic and diverse editorial team for the Journal of Adolescent & Adult Literacy (JAAL), the field’s foremost peer-reviewed journal dedicated to learners ages...Read More
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    Patricia Edwards Named Recipient of International Literacy Association’s William S. Gray Citation of Merit

    By ILA Staff
     | Jul 01, 2024

    The International Literacy Association (ILA) announced today that Patricia A. Edwards, University Distinguished Professor of Language and Literacy at Michigan State University, is the recipient of the ILA 2024 William S. Gray Citation of Merit.

    pat-edwardsThe Citation of Merit is reserved for those who have made outstanding contributions to multiple facets of literacy development, including research, theory, and practice. Recipients have decades of impactful research to their name, making the honor akin to a lifetime achievement award.

    Edwards is renowned for her extensive work in parent involvement, multicultural literacy, and family literacy and for her leadership in the field. She was the 2010–2011 president of the International Reading Association (IRA, now ILA) and the first Black president of the Literacy Association (LRA), in addition to being named the first Black recipient of the LRA’s Oscar S. Causey Award.

    Throughout her distinguished career, Edwards has authored and coauthored numerous influential publications, including two nationally acclaimed family literacy programs. She is the author or coauthor of numerous books including Change is Gonna Come: Transforming Literacy for African American Students (which won the LRA Edward B. Fry Book Award), Children’s Literacy Development: Making It Happen Through School, Family, and Community Involvement, and Partnering With Families for Student Success: 24 Scenarios for Problem Solving With Parents.

    A 2012 inductee of the Reading Hall of Fame, Edwards has received the American Educational Research Association (AERA) Scholars of Color Distinguished Career Contribution Award and was elected as a 2024 AERA Fellow.

    In addition to serving the field, Edwards has been a dedicated member of ILA since 1976. Before she was the organization’s president, she served on the Board from 1998 to 2001. She has also served on awards and grants committees and, for The Reading Teacher journal, she has been a peer reviewer and department editor and was coeditor for the 2020–2024 term.

    “I am deeply honored and thrilled that I have been selected as the recipient of the William S. Gray Citation of Merit Award. This recognition holds profound meaning for me, as it celebrates the legacy of William S. Gray, a pioneering figure whose contributions to literacy and education have left an indelible mark on countless lives,” Edwards said. “As a young child, I grew up reading Dick and Jane books [which Gray cocreated]. Those books ignited my passion for reading and laid the foundation for my lifelong love of literature. To be honored with a citation bearing the name of the scholar who played such a pivotal role in my early reading experiences is both humbling and exhilarating.”

    Edwards added: “Receiving this award is not only a personal milestone but also a tribute to the enduring impact of Gray's work. It inspires me to continue advocating for literacy and to contribute to the field with the same passion and dedication that William S. Gray exemplified.”

    The ILA awards committee praised Edwards’ trailblazing support for literacy development, particularly for families of color, stating that she “exemplifies the pinnacle of achievement in literacy and education.”

    “Dr. Edwards has consistently broken barriers and fostered inclusivity,” they wrote, “and she has also played a significant role in public service and teaching, influencing national educational policies and ensuring that children of color see their experiences reflected in educational materials. Her distinguished career highlights her excellence and profound influence on our profession and society.”

    Joining Edwards as recipients in this year’s ILA awards and grants program are nine other educators and literacy leaders:

    • Gwynne Ellen Ash, Texas State University, San Marcos | Jerry Johns Outstanding Teacher Educator in Reading Award
    • Carol Hryniuk-Adamov, Reading Council of Greater Winnipeg and Manitoba Council of Reading Clinicians | Maryann Manning Special Service Award
    • Jonathan M. Kittle, University of Delaware | Jeanne S. Chall Research Fellowship for “Reading Specialists’ Knowledge of Spanish to English Cross-Linguistic Transfer and Instruction”
    • Tobias Kroll, Texas Tech University | Elva Knight Research Grant for “Cognitive-Linguistic and Auditory Subskills in Struggling Elementary-Age Readers”
    • Amber Lawson, Michigan State University | Dina Feitelson Research Award for her Reading Research Quarterly article “We Can Draw and Think About It Ourselves: Putting Culture and Race in Phonics Instruction”
    • Xiaomeng Li, Western Washington University | Timothy & Cynthia Shanahan Outstanding Dissertation Award for “The Effects of L1 Writing System and L2 Linguistic Knowledge on L2 Word Recognition”
    • Caroline Rabalais, Georgia State University | Helen M. Robinson Grant for “Critical Literacy in Action: Taking Back Power and Control in the English Language Arts Classroom”
    • Barbara Wasik and Annemarie Hindman, Temple University | Diane Lapp & James Flood Professional Collaborator Award
    More information can be found on ILA’s awards and grants page.

    The International Literacy Association (ILA) announced today that Patricia A. Edwards, University Distinguished Professor of Language and Literacy at Michigan State University, is the recipient of the ILA 2024 William S. Gray Citation of...Read More
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