News

See where Blue Ridge Literacy is in the community with recent press coverage, events, and announcements!

October 2026

Annual Celebration

Congratulations to our award winners:

Learner of the Year: Maria de Fatima Bordon Gazzetta Crisiani Jordao Almeida, Brazil

Most Improved: Wagma Hotok, Afghanistan

Community Builder: Jane Michael, Sudan

Volunteer of the Year: Andrea Gamber and Laura Desimone, Advanced Instructors

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September 2026

Celebrating Over 40 Years

Delegate Sam Rasoul presents Dr. Ahoo Salem, Executive Director, with a Commending Resolution from the Virginia General Assembly recognizing Blue Ridge Literacy's 40th anniversary.

July 2026

Lori Baker-Lloyd BRL Board President

BRL is happy to announce that Lori Baker-Lloyd, Senior Vice President/Administration & Corporate Secretary at National Bank, is our Board President effective July 1.

June 2026

Dr. Frank Shushok Visits BRL

BRL's advanced and post-advanced classes had the exciting opportunity to meet Roanoke College President Frank Shushok. It was a meaningful visit filled with thoughtful conversations as learners shared their educational and professional journeys.

June 2026

BRL in Publication

We are honored to share that BRL is featured in the Virginia Museum of History and Culture's publication of "We the People: The World in Virginia".

May 2026

Sara Geres Awarded

Blue Ridge Literacy's Program Director, Sara Geres, was named as one of United Way of Virginia's Blue Ridge 2026 Education Heroes.

December 2025

A Message From the Executive Director

Click HERE to read a message from our Executive Director, Dr. Ahoo Salem, Regarding recent federal executive actions affecting travel, Temporary Protected Status, and U.S. naturalization revisions.

September 2025

Dr. Salem Presented With Award

Executive Director Ahoo Salem was presented with the Eva Stitt Award, which recognizes outstanding contributions to supporting the mental health and wellness of refugee and immigrant families and communities.

May 2025

BRL Celebrates 40 Years!

BRL celebrated its 40th anniversary at the Grandin Theatre with a special one-hour Buzz Live episode! Mayor Joe Cobb made a proclamation declaring May 1 as Blue Ridge Literacy Day.