Freedom to Read, Inc., Board of Directors
The mission of Freedom to Read, Inc. is to change the lives of the people of the Bahamas
so they can reach their fullest potential through the power of free access to literacy.
Freedom to Read, Inc. was incorporated in 2012, and since then,
the organization has partnered with community members and leaders to establish 12 libraries on Eleuthera.
so they can reach their fullest potential through the power of free access to literacy.
Freedom to Read, Inc. was incorporated in 2012, and since then,
the organization has partnered with community members and leaders to establish 12 libraries on Eleuthera.
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Susy Siel is the founder and executive director of Freedom to Read, Inc. Susy worked for decades as a teacher and librarian in the Kenosha (Wisconsin) Unified School District, but her heart has always been in the out islands of the Bahamas, which she started visiting as a child. Susy returned to Eleuthera Island as an adult to teach with Exceptional Education Outreach, and in 2012, she started Freedom to Read, Inc. to offer literacy opportunities to local Bahamians. One of Susy's fundamental beliefs is that education and literacy are basic human rights, and necessary to promote innovation, cultural security and self empowerment. Her goal is make sure that every settlement has access to a well-stocked library with new and relevant books, computer and internet access, and a trained library attendant.
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Bo Palmer brings many years of experience in financial management for non-profit organizations to her position, having previously managed the accounts for Healwell; American Marketing Association, DC Chapter; Arlington Pride AAU; and her own company. A frequent visitor to the out islands of the Bahamas for most of her life, Bo is eager to give back to people and places that have given her so much. She believes that by bringing free access to literacy, she can offer opportunities for Bahamians to create and dream things that may not otherwise be possible.
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Emily Goldberg secretary |
Emily Goldberg started out as a volunteer with Freedom to Read, Inc. and is honored be a board member. As a reading teacher for children with disabilities on Eleuthera/Harbour Island, she believes wholeheartedly in Freedom to Read, Inc.’s mission. She believes that libraries are an essential piece of a community’s well being and they offer essential opportunities and resources for both children and adults.
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Paula Webb Board Member |
Paula Webb is a nurse educator and a passionate reader who cannot imagine life without books. It is her honor to assist in giving the citizens of Eleuthera Island the gift of experiencing the world through the written word.
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Melinda Tichelaar board member |
Melinda Tichelaar is a journalist who visits her own library once a week and is always in the midst of a book. She believes that everyone should have a library within walking distance.
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