On Friday, April 11, Nashville Public Library’s Adult Literacy team hosted the 2025 Adult Education Spring Summit, featuring educational sessions and wellness activities tailored for adult educators from across Davidson County and Middle Tennessee. Drawing on the expertise of NPL’s program staff, the summit equipped participants with practical tools to support both learning and self-care, as well as celebrated the education champions making a difference in our community.
Adult literacy changes lives in our community by unlocking opportunities, increasing self-sufficiency, and fostering connection. Adults who struggle with literacy often face barriers to employment, health care, and civic participation. Nashville Public Library, with support from partners like the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, educates and empowers these individuals. As a central hub for adult education in Davidson County, NPL connects learners and organizations to critical resources and support. Whether someone is preparing for a high school equivalency exam, learning English, developing job skills, or navigating digital tools, NPL’s Adult Literacy Program is committed to creating more equitable access to success for adult learners in Nashville. Each year, over 1,500 people in Davidson County benefit from these programs. In addition to providing space and connections for these programs, NPL also develops new resources for teachers and students, along with ongoing professional development for educators, offered through opportunities like the Spring Summit.
Welcomed by Jamil Sameen and Linda Harrison, the summit opened with gratitude and acknowledgment of the vital role adult educators play in empowering individuals through literacy and lifelong learning. The morning keynote was delivered by Annie Paraison, a Nashville based educator and nonprofit leader. Her talk, “Caring for Ourselves and Our Clients,” reminded participants that sustainability in service begins with caring for ourselves.
One of the day’s highlights was the presentation of the Adult Educator of the Year Award. The 2024 recipient, Wendy Salyers recognized the 2025 honoree, Consuela Reed, for her innovative teaching, empathy, and dedication to adult learners in Nashville.
Consuela, an instructor at the Nashville International Center for Empowerment (NICE), has reshaped advanced ESL instruction by listening to students’ needs and building an engaging, personalized curriculum that integrates technology, real-world applications, and career readiness.
Beyond the classroom, Consuela is known for her commitment to community and inclusion, supporting learners with patience and encouragement. Reflecting on her work, she shared: “Sometimes, those two hours in class are a safe place—where students can step away from life’s challenges and feel seen, heard, and capable. That’s why I keep showing up.”
After the award ceremony, attendees gathered for lunch and a presentation by Studio NPL’s Stuart Wilson on “Effectively Embracing and Utilizing AI,” which offered tools and inspiration for incorporating artificial intelligence into adult education settings.
Before closing remarks, Caroline Cronin, a certified yoga instructor and bilingual literacy assistant with Bringing Books to Life, led the group through a chair yoga session, highlighting the importance of taking time to recharge.
The Adult Literacy team at Nashville Public Library is dedicated to creating more equitable access to success for adult learners by strengthening partnerships, supporting educators, and ensuring learners have the resources they need to succeed. Events like the Spring Summit are just one example of the resources the Adult Literacy team provides to our community to support their mission of connection, empowerment, and growth.
If you or someone you know could benefit from adult education services, please explore programs at https://library.nashville.org/adult-literacy.
