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network to produce mutually
beneficial relationships, and,
ultimately, generate unparalleled
value to those who join us.
We ask that you bear with us in
the coming year as we complete
our transformation. We’re training
staff and preparing our ILA Brand
Ambassadors—who will now grow
to include an even broader array
of members—to carry forth our
message and cause. There will likely
be snags along the way as we work
through the complex task of the
makeover. The website redesign will
take some time, but we’re certain
that once we’re done, you will enjoy
a virtual space and have a user
experience worth the wait.
It’s easy to view this transition as
merely a change of name and a
new color. Some will like it and
some will not. The ILA Brand
Ambassadors weighed in on many
versions, colors, and typesets. We
all had opinions of what we liked
and what we didn’t like, and in the
end there was not total agreement
on all particulars.
But there was and is total
consensus on what ILA means. All
of those involved in this intense
(and sometimes frustrating) yet
exhilarating process will tell you
that what is happening to ILA
isn’t about visuals. What is most
exciting to us is the development
of a vibrant new meaning for being
here—what ILA is determined to
stand for as we look to extend
our legacy into the next 60 years
and beyond as a true champion
for literacy and literacy educators
around the world.
We can no longer sit quiet and safe
on the sidelines.
We will be conveners of dialogue,
discussion, and debate on literacy
education. We will pose the
2012
FEBRUARY A joint
board/staff strategic planning
committee is formed to examine
IRA’s strengths, weaknesses, and
opportunities in order to guide
its future direction.
“We can no longer sit quiet and safe
on the sidelines.”
The decisions that led to our transformation have been part of
a natural evolution, guiding us as we strive to serve, educate,
and inspire. As it should, the process included a great deal of
member feedback along the way. As we continue to evolve,
your voice will continue to be heard. The following is just a
sampling of the events that led to where we stand today.
From IRA to ILA
2013
SEPTEMBER The strategic
planning committee concludes its
research and raises the question of
whether or not IRA’s name reflects its
current mission scope and values.
OCTOBER IRA Board of
Directors recognizes the need to
broaden its reach when it approves the
motion to become the International
Literacy Association.
NOVEMBER “Transforming
Lives Through Literacy” is chosen as
the 2015 conference theme, with an
overwhelmingly positive response from
members.
JULY McKinley Advisors, a
consulting firm for associations,
begins a learning analysis survey to
help IRA discern what its members
need and value most. This includes
in-person discussions, an online
survey, and two focus groups over
the next nine-month period.