Our regularly scheduled NewsBrief will resume January 8th, 2021
Dear Language Advocates,

As we reflect on the past year, I would like to express JNCL-NCLIS' deep appreciation for all of our members and advocates. The many challenges of 2020 have further demonstrated the importance of our work together, and reminded us that our network of language educators, professionals, researchers, and business owners like you, are resilient and innovative leaders.

We start our 40th year of advocacy and association by celebrating the inclusion of $15M in the FY21 omnibus appropriations bill to begin the World Language Advancement and Readiness Grants program. This victory is the direct result of your voice, your story, and your action. Thank you for your tireless advocacy.

As my term as president and time on the board draws to a close, I have every confidence that the next chapter of JNCL-NCLIS leadership will bring continued success for our organization and its members.

On behalf of JNCL-NCLIS, I wish you a joyous holiday season and a safe and healthy New Year! I look forward to joining you during Virtual Language Advocacy Days 2021 where we will continue to work together ensure equitable and accessible language education and career opportunities for all.


Best Wishes,

Rita A. Oleksak
JNCL-NCLIS President

We are grateful for the dedicated service of President Rita A. Oleksak, Treasurer Renee Jourdenais, and Board Members David Bong, Joel Gomez, Janet Ikeda, Keith Cothrun, and Meredith Clark. We wish you all the best in your future endeavors.

Newly-elected board members include John Carlino, Fernando Rubio, Ryan Smith, Duarte Silva, and Arthur Chou.

Special congratulations to the JNCL-NCLIS 2021 Elected Officers:

  • President: Amanda Seewald
  • President-Elect: Caitilin Walsh
  • Treasurer: Giovanni Donatelli
  • Secretary: Howie Berman
  • At-Large Executive Committee Members: Greg Barfield and John Carlino

We look forward to working with you!


A big win for the language community - Congress has included $15M in the FY21 omnibus appropriations bill to begin the World Language Advancement and Readiness Grants program!

The World Language Advancement and Readiness Act (WLARA) was first introduced in 2017. Since that time, many of you have joined the hundreds of advocates who participate in JNCL's annual Language Advocacy Day, building relationships and educating Members of Congress on the value of investing in world language education to prepare students for an increasingly globalized world. In the months surrounding Language Advocacy Day events, you have readily answered calls to action and continued to give this program a voice. In last month's final push for funding, nearly 200 advocates urged their representatives to sign on to a Congressional letter in support of the program. This victory is a direct result of your advocacy!

Celebrate the power of advocacy by sharing the news on social media!

Join JNCL-NCLIS as we celebrate 40 years of association and advocacy during Virtual Language Advocacy Days 2021! Deadline to register is January 1st, 2021.

During the three day advocacy event, language educators and professionals will unite for the unique opportunity to learn about the federal programs that impact the Language Enterprise, understand the role of advocacy in advancing collective policy priorities, and gain skills to become successful advocates for world languages.
JNCL-NCLIS Significant Contributors
JNCL-NCLIS is grateful for the support from our partners.
WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 23, 2020 ISSUE
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