The Center for Vibrant Schools at Marian University has hired its first-ever Director of Literacy Programs, Anne Elsener, Ph.D.
As Director of Literacy Programs, Dr. Elsener will provide strategic leadership and operational oversight for the Center for Vibrant Schools’ literacy and reading programs and courses offered by the K-12 Marian University Prep School, professional development programs, and mentoring for educators, with a dedicated focus on dyslexia training; and other adult education programs that assist students in earning a General Education Diploma.
Dr. Elsener develops and oversees the creation of programs for the Center for Vibrant Schools to support the implementation of instructional practices and materials supported by the Science of Reading research, as well as collaborates with instructional and professional staff and sub-contractors to fulfill contractual obligations with the United States Department of Education, United States Department of Labor, Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Workforce Development and other funding agencies.
“Already, the Center for Vibrant Schools has impacted thousands of students and educators throughout Indiana and the Midwest. With Anne’s expertise, the Center can provide additional research-backed, high-quality resources to schools to help students shine inside and outside the classroom,” said Robert Behning, Assistant Vice President, and Director, Center for Vibrant Schools.
Prior to joining Marian University, Dr. Elsener served as Director of Curriculum and Instruction at Chicago Jesuit Academy, and as an Associate Instructor in the Education departments at both Dominican University in Illinois and Indiana University Bloomington. She taught middle school at St. Therese of the Little Flower in Indianapolis and at St. Ann School in Nashville, Tenn., and is trained as an Orton-Gillingham tutor for students with dyslexia. In addition, Dr. Elsener has trained higher education instructors to integrate technology into education and teach online and blended courses.
“Marian University is where I began my education career as an undergrad earning my Elementary Teaching License, and I’m excited to be back,” said Anne Elsener, Ph.D. “I am looking forward to being part of the great work the Center for Vibrant Schools is already doing and helping to expand the ways we support teachers and schools with implementing effective reading instruction for all students.”