Ladies For Literacy Guild

In the spirit of service, the Ladies for Literacy Guild mobilizes resources to foster a love of reading through the power of literacy.

Ladies for Literacy Guild is a dynamic group of women committed to carrying forth Barbara Bush’s legacy in literacy and supporting the Barbara Bush Houston Literacy Foundation.

Their mission is to READ:

Rally members and supporters to advance the literacy cause;

Enrich lives through literacy programs;

Advocate for the importance of literacy; and

Devote time, talent and treasure to ensure the success of the Foundation’s mission.


Join the Ladies for Literacy Guild

If you are seeking an organization to expand your network while making a difference in the community, then become a member of the Ladies for Literacy Guild.

Stories of Impact

Ladies Guild Raises Half a Million for Literacy Program Through the Power of Literacy Luncheon

In Partnership with HISD, the Ladies Guild Helps the Foundation Reach One Millionth Book Milestone

Ladies for Literacy Guild Dedicates New Library at Spring Branch Boys & Girls Club

Member Spotlight

Meet Jacqueline Valle

Jaqueline, inspired by her family's legacy of educators, understands the transformative power of reading. Motivated by her mother and grandmother's dedication to teaching, she felt compelled to foster a love for literacy in young minds.

Volunteering with the Foundation’s Reading Roundup program, supported by the Ladies for Literacy Guild, brings Jaqueline immense joy and personal growth. Each month, she eagerly shares her passion for books, hoping to inspire children to embrace literacy and pursue their dreams with confidence.

What people are saying…

“To continue the literacy legacy of Mrs. Bush has been such a joyful experience in my life, and to see a child's world change through the power of literacy is a gift and a blessing for which I am so grateful.”

— Founding Member and Past President Trish Morille

Ladies of Literacy Guild Over the Years

LADIES FOR LITERACY EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

  Officers 

President – Deborah Dunkum 

President Elect – Mehrnaz Gill 

Treasurer – Jennifer Barron 

Secretary – Betty Hrncir 

Vice Presidents of Membership – Trenette Allen & Karen McQueary 

Vice Presidents of Volunteers – Barbie Prusak & Sharon Smalling 

Vice Presidents of Community Projects – Julie Little & Melissa Patin Committee Chairs    

  Committee Chairs

Co-Chairs of 2026 Giving Tree – Maggie Austin, Anne McClellan, & Mary Sage 

Co-Chairs of Grant Committee – Trish Greaser & Carla Stevens 

Co-Chairs of Communications – Jacqueline Valle & Dodi Willingham 

Co-Chairs of First Lady’s Book Club – Lilly Andress & Diane Gendel 

Co-Chairs of 2026 Power of Literacy Luncheon – Jan Rhodes & Sandra Shenkir 

  Members at Large  

Ginger Blanton 

Lesha Elsenbrook 

Kathy Goossen 

Maureen Higdon 

Gina Saour

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