Literacy NRV welcomes new Executive Director, Lauren Brooke Ellis

Literacy NRV's new Executive Director, Lauren Brooke Ellis

Literacy NRV is pleased to announce the appointment of Lauren Brooke Ellis as its new Executive Director. Ellis officially began her role on Monday, January 12, succeeding Ginny Ayers, who has served as Executive Director and will be stepping down after four years of dedicated leadership and service to the organization.

Ellis brings a strong background in nonprofit administration, education, fundraising, and community engagement, with a career rooted in empowering individuals to share their stories and access meaningful learning opportunities. In her most recent nonprofit role, she served as Programs and Public Relations Coordinator at Piedmont Arts in Martinsville, where she led community-based programming, public messaging, and large-scale fundraising efforts, including grant writing and contributions to a successful $1 million capital campaign. Her experience also includes higher education teaching, arts education, and organizational leadership across Southwest Virginia.

Throughout her career, Ellis has centered her focus on equity, creativity, and collaboration—values that closely align with Literacy NRV’s mission to empower adults through literacy, education, and life skills.

Ginny Ayers, Outgoing Executive Director, said “It has been an honor to serve Literacy NRV and to work alongside such engaged and impactful staff, volunteers, and community partners. I am deeply confident in Lauren’s leadership and vision. Her commitment to education, storytelling, and community connection makes her an excellent choice to guide Literacy NRV into its next chapter.”

“To say I’m honored is an understatement,” Ellis said. “As a long-time educator and community advocate, I know firsthand the importance of building bridges over barriers to education access. Having the tools to actively engage in your own life and decisions creates avenues for empowerment, autonomy, and expression; ultimately contributing to the well-being of the community one lives in.” She added, “I strongly believe that education is a human right. There is so much room for joy in teaching and building skills, but more importantly, it is a sacred mission that places humanity and care at the forefront.”

Ginny Ayers (right) "passes the baton" to Lauren (left), beginning a new era of leadership at Literacy NRV

“On behalf of the board, I thank Ginny for her dedicated leadership and lasting impact on our organization. As we wish her all the best, we are excited to welcome Lauren as our new Executive Director and look forward to the vision and energy she brings to the role,” said Elizabeth Towson, president of the Literacy NRV Board of Directors.

In addition to this leadership transition, Literacy NRV also shares appreciation for Brittany Williams Hash, Volunteer Coordinator, who concluded her tenure at the end of December as she prepares to welcome her second child. Brittany’s dedication and care for volunteers and learners have left a meaningful impact on the organization, and Literacy NRV extends its sincere gratitude and best wishes to her and her family. Ayers will temporarily fill Hash’s role during the leadership transition; a new Volunteer Coordinator will be hired in the spring.

As Literacy NRV looks ahead, the organization remains committed to expanding access to education, strengthening community partnerships, and supporting adult learners throughout the New River Valley.