Alaska Literacy Program Celebrates 50 Years by Naming Two New Co-Directors by pedro graterol
Amy Facklam leading Programs and Marisol Vargas leading our Operations.
As ALP turns 50, two longtime educators step up to lead, promising inclusive, evolving support for Alaska’s diverse adult learners.
In its 50th year of service, the Alaska Literacy Program (ALP) is marking a major milestone not only in longevity but in leadership. The organization, which has spent five decades helping adults read, write, speak English, and navigate life in Alaska, has named two seasoned educators, Marisol Vargas and Amy Facklam, as its new Co-Executive Directors, signaling a thoughtful continuity of mission, a deep respect for lived experience, and a bold step into the future of adult education in the state.
Just as the demands of modern life evolve, so too has ALP’s definition of literacy. “Literacy is such an all-encompassing word,” said Facklam, who has been part of ALP’s programming team. “Yes, it means knowing how to read and write, but it also includes the element of being able to understand information and to have knowledge of a specific area, digital literacy, health literacy, workplace skills, and much more.”
Both leaders bring deep experience within the organization. Vargas, who first arrived at ALP as a student nearly 16 years ago, has held nearly every role since then. “I’ve witnessed the impact literacy has on individuals and families,” she said. “This milestone is a chance to honor the legacy of those who built ALP and to strengthen the systems that will sustain it into the future.” While their roles are shared, their approaches are complementary. “We trust each other and respect what the other brings to the table,” said Vargas. “Good teamwork means being honest, open, and always focused on our shared mission.”
Central to that mission is cultural inclusion. “We do this by hiring diverse individuals who are representative of the communities we serve and welcoming anyone who needs our services with open arms,” said Facklam. Vargas added, “Every student brings their own culture, language, and experience. We try to build programs that respect that and include it.”
Their immediate priorities include strengthening partnerships and securing sustainable funding. However, both leaders are thinking long-term. “Success,” said Facklam, “means learners and community members feel welcomed and are able to access services that are meaningful to them.” For Vargas, it’s about building “clear systems that support our team and our students.” “It is an honor to step into this role with Marisol,” Facklam reflected. “I get to be a part of ensuring that ALP is able to provide adult education and family literacy for the next 50 years.”
