Our staff has a strong commitment to serving the many constituents of our organization. But first and foremost, they focus their energies on those who take advantage of our programs and services.
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President and CEO
Nonprofit veteran, Ernest Lewis III has a diverse background in the areas of management, fund development, media, literacy, arts administration, and community development. The New Orleans' native has called Houston home for 12 years. Ernest has acquired varied experience in developing and shaping signature programming focusing on basic needs, disaster recovery, youth development, adult and family literacy, senior services, workforce development, art education, and homeless prevention. During 19 years of service in the nonprofit arena, Ernest has cultivated, secured and managed more than $20 million in private, federal, and public funds to advance the mission of many noteworthy nonprofits in New Orleans and Houston.
“I am thrilled about serving as CEO of the Adult Reading Center and helping tell its amazing story. I have the tremendous opportunity to return to my literacy roots and promote the common good within the greater community.”
The American Leadership Class XL Senior Fellow and ARTreach of Katy Board President holds undergraduate and graduate degrees in business and is excited about the next chapter of his career.
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Chief Operating Officer
Carol Keeney has a B.S. in Education from the University of Texas in Austin. She began working with the Adult Reading Center on July 1, 2009. Her extensive knowledge in working with research-based curriculum and in recruiting and retaining volunteers has improved service to adult learners by significantly lowering the wait time for classes. Prior to her association with the Adult Reading Center, she was Director of Evaluation and Grant Resources with Literacy Advance of Houston where she authored, researched, and received $622,000 in grants.
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Chief Financial Officer
Jasmine Patel holds a B.S. degree in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting from California State University of Fresno. She brings to the CFO position a strong background in financial accounting and auditing. Jasmine served the Adult Reading Center as a volunteer for several years before joining the Executive Team. She co-chaired the 2nd Annual Red Carpet Gala, successfully raising $25,000 for the Center. Born and raised in Kent, England, Jasmine began her accounting career in California before moving to Pearland in 2007.
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Development Coordinator
Born and raised in Pearland, Kelly Miller brings experience in media relations, volunteer management, and event planning to her position as Development Coordinator for the Adult Reading Center. She was previously employed at MD Anderson Cancer Center for nine years. Her most recent position with the Public Relations & Marketing department was spent gaining experience with web design. At the Volunteer Services department, she worked closely with volunteers on web training, event planning, and necessary customer service skills during holiday events.
