Cayman’s literacy charity, Literacy Is For Everyone (LIFE) has announced the appointment of its new Executive Director – Erica Dell’Oglio.

Dell’Oglio has been with LIFE since July 2020, previously in the role of Volunteer and Programmes Coordinator. In that role she coordinated all of LIFE’s programmes, volunteers and community events including Paired Reading, Book Donations, Partners in Print and LIFE’s signature Thrive by Five programme.

She has extensive experience in the education sector and working with a broad range of people from various backgrounds reflected in her time at Cayman Prep and High School, her time as a former Montessori teacher and her diverse cultural upbringing.

“We are delighted that Ms. Dell’Oglio has accepted the position as Executive Director and are confident, that as LIFE continues to grow and evolve, she will be a valuable leader to the organisation, having both experience and passion for her work,” said Woody Foster, LIFE Chairman.

“Working with LIFE has allowed me to not only be a part of but see firsthand the impact better education and literacy has on our children. I am very happy to take on the role of Executive Director and work alongside wonderful and likeminded individuals within LIFE and the wider community to achieve our Mission of significantly impacting literacy levels in the Cayman Islands,” said Dell’Oglio.

Some of Dell’Oglio’s priorities will be developing the organisation’s future 3-year strategy, recruitment of additional LIFE team members and the continued roll out of the Thrive by Five initiative.

“Our goal over the next three years is on a fundamental shift from literacy intervention to systemic change to literacy in the Cayman Islands. We intend to focus on our three pillars; advocacy, community partnerships and critical programmes,” said Dell’Oglio.

LIFE is focusing its critical education and community outreach programmes on early childhood, a crucial time of brain and language development for children aged birth to five years old. Recognising the importance of early childhood centres for children below the age of compulsory education, the Office of Educational Standards’ 2019 Annual Report points to international research demonstrating the critical impact of the quality of a child’s early childhood experience on future academic outcomes and educational participation.

For more information about how to get involved in LIFE’s mission, follow them on Facebook, Instagram or LinkedIn @LIFECayman, visit their website at www.life.org.ky or email [email protected].