Maria Murray Recognized as Central New York’s Nonprofit Executive of the Year for Transformative Leadership
In a significant recognition of exemplary leadership in the nonprofit sector, Dr. Maria Murray has been awarded the title of Central New York Nonprofit Executive of the Year by the CNY Business Journal. This prestigious award honors her transformative work as the president and chief executive officer of The Reading League (TRL), an organization dedicated to promoting evidence-based reading instruction. The accolade acknowledges her contributions that have led to meaningful changes in literacy education policy across the United States.
Dr. Murray's journey with The Reading League began in a personal setting, operating from her kitchen table. Since then, the organization has evolved into a powerhouse in the field of literacy education, advocating for reading as a civil right. Her leadership has catalyzed substantial changes, influencing 40 states and the District of Columbia to align their literacy policies with scientific research, which underscores the importance of evidence-based reading instruction.
"Maria is a visionary leader who has dedicated her career to transforming literacy education and advocating for every child's right to read," stated Stephanie Finn, chair of the TRL board. Her unwavering commitment to advancing reading instruction and her ability to inspire educators and policymakers have positioned The Reading League as a national force for change.
Under Dr. Murray's stewardship, TRL has witnessed extraordinary growth within less than a decade. The organization now boasts nearly 40 state chapters and has a dedicated team of over 30 staff members. One of its highlights is the annual conference, which attracts more than 2,500 educators and advocates from around the world, all united in their quest for improved literacy outcomes.
The upcoming 18th CNY Business Journal Nonprofit Awards will take place on March 26 at the DoubleTree by Hilton in Syracuse, where Dr. Murray will be celebrated alongside eight other leaders and organizations that are making a positive impact in Central New York. Jill Allen, director of BizEventz for the CNY Business Journal, praised Dr. Murray’s accomplishments, stating, "Her leadership has not only shaped The Reading League into the powerhouse it is today, but it has also made a significant difference in the lives of students and educators across the country. Maria's vision and impact are immeasurable, and we proudly celebrate her accomplishments."
The Reading League aims to enhance understanding and knowledge of evidence-aligned approaches to teaching reading. By providing training and support to educators and school leaders, the organization is committed to the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to learn how to read, and that all teachers can be equipped to teach them effectively.
Dr. Murray's work has emphasized the significance of staying informed about scientifically-based research related to reading and writing, which is paramount in creating effective teaching strategies. Through her tireless efforts, she has fostered a national dialogue on the necessity of aligning literacy education practices with scientific findings, thereby establishing a foundation for educational equity.
In her acceptance speech and throughout her career, Dr. Murray has dedicated herself to advocating for both educators and students. The recognition she has received not only reflects her personal achievements, but also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility to ensure every child's right to read is upheld. This award will undoubtedly inspire continued efforts to push forward the agenda for effective literacy instruction on a larger scale, as The Reading League continues to lead in promoting scientifically-informed education practices.