Hi! My name is Stella Hughes, and I am a fourth-year student at The Ohio State University studying Public Policy Analysis and City and Regional Planning with minors in Economics and History, originally from Kansas City, Missouri. Back home, I am a long-time volunteer of Lead to Read KC, a nonprofit that mobilizes the community to solve the literacy crisis by connecting students with reading mentors, resources, and unwavering support. In Kansas City, only 23% of third graders in public and charter schools are reading on grade level. Comparatively, roughly 40% of Columbus City Schools third graders are proficient in reading. The end of third grade is typically when students transition from learning to read to reading to learn, and children who are not reading by third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school. Access to books and quality education and programming are essential to building early literacy skills. However, countless youth are unable to access the books and tools they need to succeed as a reader and student.  

I am passionate about access to educational opportunities and resources, especially for younger people, so every student has access to the resources they need to build a strong foundation as a reader and student. Early literacy is foundational for success later in life, and every child deserves the same access to the programs and education that build such an important foundation. Gladys Foster Anderson was a champion for early literacy and elementary education throughout her life, but we have more than that shared passion in common. During her time at Ohio State, she was also a member of Alpha Chi Omega sorority. My time in Alpha Chi has made me a more confident leader and allowed me to strengthen my commitment to service and giving back to the Columbus community.  

Your support of the Gladys Foster Anderson Early Literacy Fund will allow more students to have access to foundational literacy skills to foster a love of learning and build a strong future. Join me in continuing Gladys’ legacy by supporting early literacy programs to give all children the opportunity to succeed.