Members of the Leadership Jacksonville Class of 2025 recently completed their yearlong journey through the leadership development program, and we sat down with our President and CEO Dr. Rob Kelly to hear his reflections on the immersive experience.
“As someone who was born and raised in Jacksonville, this was a welcomed learning experience to more deeply explore and understand the city I love,” shared Dr. Kelly. “There is so much that I never knew – even having grown up here – or had not seen before.”
“I’d have to say one of the most impactful takeaways for me was about the St. Johns River,” he added. “The history of the river, it’s importance to our development as a city, it’s health and clean-up efforts over the years… all of it. There is so much to learn and explore about this central component of our area’s ecosystem, that is so vital to so much life in our region. Even taking the riverboat cruise showed me different parts of the river I hadn’t seen before.”
During the year, Leadership Jacksonville members – who are selected among a large pool of applicants – deep dive into key areas such as local economic development, education, health, justice, and other areas that enable them to more deeply understand how they can play a stronger leadership role in our city’s future.
“The connections and relationships I’ve established or strengthened through this experience are phenomenal,” reflected Dr. Kelly. “These friendships, professional and otherwise, will extend far beyond the past year we’ve spent together. I want to thank Gracie Simendinger and her team at LJ, and all of my LJ colleagues this year, for a truly meaningful experience. I also want to thank Ellen Wiss, READ USA’s co-founder and Board chair, for sponsoring me, and Paula Renfro, Chief Academic Officer for Duval County Public Schools, for supporting my nomination.”
As Dr. Kelly’s time with LJ comes to a close, Team READ USA is excited to share that our very own Holden Scyster, Chief Operating Officer for READ USA, was selected to be in next year’s class! We cannot wait to see all that you learn and experience during the coming year as a member of the LJ Class of 2026, Holden!
Welcome to Our New Board Members
Team READ USA is grateful to welcome two new Board members to our organization: Sheila Collier and Kevin Doyle!
Sheila Collier has been a highly engaged community leader and philanthropic advocate for more than four decades across the First Coast. Following a successful career in banking, Sheila began dedicating more time to nonprofit leadership and civic engagement. She has since played a key leadership role with organizations and causes that drive impactful change in Jacksonville.
She recently completed her term as President of the Women’s Giving Alliance, overseeing tremendous growth in membership and grant funding, and she has chaired numerous fundraisers and development campaigns for a variety of organizations in Jacksonville. At her core – as someone who began volunteering in high school and has remained a dedicated community supporter since then – she believes that “Everyone can experience the joy and blessing of generosity because everyone has something to give.” (Quote from Jan Grace.)
Sheila has also been a long-time supporter of READ USA, giving generously in support of our Literacy Tutoring and Workforce Development programs, the impact of which she strongly believes in.
You can read Sheila’s full bio here.
Kevin Doyle’s career has traversed the private and government sectors, and he currently leads public affairs for two consulting firms, HBW Resources and Wexford Strategies. He recently completed a three-year term as Chair of CareerSource Florida’s Board of Directors, serving on the Board for a total of nine years, giving him tremendous insight into the state’s workforce development initiatives across private and public industries.
A native of the First Coast, Kevin’s career has also taken him into the political arena, holding leadership roles in the offices of U.S. Senator Mel Martinez and in the Bush Administration. He also worked as a consultant for the New Zealand National Party in Wellington, New Zealand.
You can read Kevin’s full bio here.
We are grateful to have Sheila and Kevin and their vast experience in workforce development and philanthropy on our Board of Directors! Welcome to Team READ USA, Sheila and Kevin!
READ USA Presents During JAX Chamber Professional Women’s Council Luncheon
Thank you to the JAX Chamber Professional Women’s Council for welcoming READ USA and our colleagues to join you all last week!
Our President & CEO Dr. Rob Kelly joined the City of Jacksonville and Kids Hope Alliance to talk about
“Show Up To Shine,” the citywide school attendance initiative, and the importance of access to books for students of all ages.
Melissa Ross, Director of Strategic Initiatives and Press Liaison for the Mayor’s Office, discussed how Mayor Donna Deegan and Duval County Public Schools have partnered for Show Up To Shine and a new component of the initiative: Book Vending Machines in schools! The Book Vending Machines, which are available for sponsorships, will be placed in DCPS schools to reward students with good attendance. There is more to come on that soon!
Dr. Saralyn Grass, CEO of Kids Hope Alliance, discussed various ways Kids Hope Alliance is funding service providers to reinforce school attendance towards improving grade-level reading proficiency. Dr. Kelly provided an update on research efforts to determine root causes of attendance issues across the city and discussed READ USA’s focus on grade-level reading proficiency and the impact it makes on students’ ability to contribute to the workforce. Kids Hope Alliance has been a key partner in READ USA’s Literacy Tutoring and Workforce Development programs, both of which also provide positive reinforcement to the City’s Show Up To Shine initiative. (You can read more about our partnership and these programs here).
Thank you to the JAX Chamber Professional Women’s Council, and particularly to Council President Tangee Huger, for the invitation to join you all and the opportunity to share this important message with your members!
Children’s Book: Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May? by Jean Fritz
Illustrated by Margot Tomes
Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May? is a historical novel that explores the life and experiences of one of America’s most legendary Revolutionary figures. The story revolves around a mysterious event on May 29, 1765, when Patrick Henry, famous for his “Give me liberty or give me death” speech, is absent from an important time in history.
McKinley describes a detailed portrayal of Henry’s life, skillfully blending historical facts with engaging fiction. The narrative follows Henry’s journey as he navigates personal and public struggles that ultimately led to his emergence as a key leader in the American fight for independence. The book sheds light on his relationships, political views, and the events that influenced his powerful speaking skills.
The title’s central question—Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May?—is an intriguing hook throughout the story, creating a sense of mystery and anticipation. While it may initially seem like a minor question, it deepens the reader’s connection to the historical significance of Henry’s life, prompting reflection on often-overlooked moments in history.
Overall, Where Was Patrick Henry on the 29th of May? provides a compelling and insightful look at one of America’s pivotal Revolutionary figures, sharing historical insight and a different perspective on the man who played a crucial role in shaping the nation. It is a great choice for readers interested in the American Revolution, Patrick Henry’s legacy, or historical fiction.
Submitted by Judy Howard, M.Ed.
Parent Education Corner: Make Writing Fun!
Make Writing Fun!
Writing daily with your child sends a message to him/her that writing is valued and important. Dedicated time to practice with you deepens the connection between parent and child and, as a result, produces encouragement and motivation. Your commitment can help your child stay engaged and excited about writing!
Submitted by Judy Howard, M.Ed.
Do you have any questions or ideas for the Parent Education Corner? Anything you’d like to learn? Let us know here!