2025 Annual Awards Ceremony
Literacy Volunteers of America, Essex & Passaic Counties
At last month’s Annual Awards Ceremony at Bloomfield High School, we celebrated the dedication and progress of students, tutors, instructors, and teachers who have invested countless hours in their learning and teaching journeys. Honorees represented programs across both counties, including our valued partners at Maplewood Public Library and the NCC Adult Learning Center.
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This year’s recognitions highlighted both commitment and personal achievement. Students and tutors were honored for their hours of study and service, as well as for standout accomplishments. Our Students of the Year were Peterson for Essex County and Teresita for Passaic County. In addition, the Essex County Tutor of the Year and President’s Award recipient was Hannah Beykirch, and the Passaic County Tutor of the Year was Melissa Primiceri.
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For many newcomers, building a sense of belonging can be difficult—even after years in the United States. One of the most meaningful aspects of LVAEP is the way students forge friendships with one another as they learn English, explore new cultural experiences, and navigate work, family life, and personal growth.
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Our tutors represent a wide range of backgrounds, yet share a common purpose: supporting students in their literacy goals. Some draw inspiration from their own family’s immigrant history, others from their personal journey as immigrants, and all are united by a desire to give back and uplift their communities
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“I am often amazed at our students’ commitment to learning English while juggling work and family responsibilities. They know new opportunities open as their English improves, but it takes determination and perseverance—and I admire each and every one of them,” one tutor shared. This spirit is reflected in our Students of the Year: Miriam Ruminez in Essex County and Claudio Amaral in Passaic County
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Congratulations to all our students, tutors, instructors, teachers, and affiliate organizations!
AAC 2025 Program
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