Welcome to the Iowa Literacy Council
The Iowa Literacy Council is dedicated to enhancing literacy and basic skills among adults throughout the state. Our mission focuses on coordinating various literacy programs to avoid duplication of efforts and offering support to individuals who need fundamental skills. The Council strives to improve literacy levels in the context of family, community, and workplace settings, making a significant impact on the lives of Iowans.
Congratulations to Our Award Winners!
We are proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of this year’s award recipients at the 2025 Adult Education & Literacy Conference. These individuals and organizations have demonstrated exceptional dedication, innovation, and impact in the field of adult literacy. Their work continues to inspire and uplift communities, and we honor their commitment to lifelong learning and education for all.
Outstanding Educator of the Year
The Archie Willard Outstanding Educator Award honors an exceptional adult educator who demonstrates dedication, innovation, and compassion. This year’s recipient was Cheryl Trunnell from Iowa Central Community College. As an educator since 2019, Cheryl has been a pillar of Iowa Central’s Adult Education program.
She brings energy, empathy, and a deep passion for teaching reading and writing. Cheryl builds meaningful relationships with her students, supporting them not just in academics but in life. She offers one-on-one support, even outside class, and has helped redesign curriculum to better serve learners.
In addition to receiving her Outstanding Educator Award, Cheryl also received a registration to the COABE conference in 2026.
Cheryl with her Archie Willard award and certificate from COABE to attend their 2026 conference.
Outstanding Adult Learner of the Year Award
The Outstanding Adult Learner Award is given to two exceptional students who embody the perseverance and dedication of adult learners in our state. These students have demonstrated remarkable commitment and effort in furthering their education, excelling in ESL or HSE programs, and serving as inspiring examples for adult education students throughout Iowa. This year’s recipients were Ricardo Ruiz, and Nyareat Kong.
Ricardo Ruiz
Ricardo exemplifies perseverance and leadership, balancing single fatherhood, work, and education with unwavering dedication. Beginning ELL classes in fall 2023, he advanced rapidly through the program, earned top HiSET scores, and was honored as the Fall 2024 HiSET Graduation speaker. Beyond academics, Ricardo mentors others, maintains strong discipline in fitness and nutrition, and now continues his educational journey in DMACC’s Electrical Trades program—serving as an inspiring role model for his family and community.
Ricardo is shown with his family and Bonnie Shaw, Ricardo’s instructor at DMACC
Nyareat Kong
Nyareat Kong’s journey from war-torn South Sudan to academic success in the U.S. is a testament to her strength and determination. Overcoming immense hardship, she rose through ESL levels, passed key HiSET exams, and excelled in the CNA Jumpstart program, all while mentoring young women and supporting her family. Now pursuing a nursing degree, Nyareat inspires others with her resilience and belief that education can change lives. Nyareat was not able to attend the conference in person.
Outstanding Administrator of the Year
The Outstanding Adult Education Administrator Award honors Dr. Scott Schneider of Eastern Iowa Community College for his transformative leadership in adult education. Through innovative initiatives like the Skills to Success model and Fast Track program, he has improved access and accelerated student success. Dr. Schneider has championed remote learning, support services such as a graduate voucher program, and faculty training grounded in evidence-based retention strategies.
Scott’s commitment extends to underserved populations, expanding opportunities for immigrants, refugees, and justice-involved individuals. His visionary leadership has left a lasting impact on both EICC and the broader Eastern Iowa community.
Jessica Fredrickson, ILC Vice President, presents Dr. Scott Schneider with the Outstanding Adult Education Administrator Award
Outstanding Adult Education Employer of the Year
This is the first year the Iowa Literacy Council has presented the Outstanding Adult Education Employer of the Year Award, recognizing an employer’s exceptional commitment to supporting adult learners in the workplace. Michael Foods was honored having shown a strong dedication to employee development by offering free, accessible workplace literacy classes that help staff improve language skills, communication, and confidence. These classes are structured to accommodate work schedules and personal responsibilities, ensuring broad participation. The results are significant—50% of recent participants achieved measurable skills gains, with employees reporting greater confidence in communicating with colleagues and understanding safety protocols. This initiative not only enhances individual growth but also boosts employee retention, engagement, and career advancement, reflecting the company’s broader commitment to a supportive and growth-focused workplace culture.
Representatives from Michael Foods accept the Outstanding Adult Education Employer of the Year Award
Keynote Speaker
Thomas Thibodeau delivered the keynote session entitled The Positive Power of Servant Leadership during the conference. Thibodeau is the Distinguished Professor of Servant Leadership at Viterbo University where he has been teaching for 40 years.
COABE Conference Winners
At the 2025 Iowa Adult Education & Literacy Conference, COABE donated two registrations to their 2026 conference in Indianapolis, IN. One registration was given to the 2025 Adult Educator of the Year – Cheryl Trunnell from Iowa Central. The second winner was selected by COABE from conference attendees who signed up through the COABE website. Congratulations to Paige Kloster, Adult Education and Literacy Coordinator for DMACC for winning the second registration!
Pledge Your Support to Adult Education!
COABE Action Center invites you to pledge your support to adult education. Your support will make a difference. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone.
Please visit the COABE website to pledge your support.
Adult Educators
Adult educators play a vital role in today's evolving educational landscape. They are dedicated professionals who specialize in teaching and supporting adult learners, helping them to achieve their personal, professional, and academic goals. These educators bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, utilizing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students of all backgrounds. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive learning environment ensures that every adult learner has the opportunity to succeed and thrive. Through their efforts, adult educators empower individuals to embrace lifelong learning and contribute meaningfully to their communities. Hear from some of our educators
Become a Member!
The Iowa Literacy Council invites you to become a member of the Iowa Literacy Council. Learn more by visiting our membership page.
The Role of Adult Education
Did you know that there are 36 million adults that can not read or write at the fourth grade level? Low skill levels are a fundamental barrier to every major challenge facing the United States. This video is a wonderful resource to show the role and impact of Adult Education.