Our Team

At Literacy for Life, we believe that everyone deserves the chance to read, write, and thrive.

For more than 40 years, our dedicated staff, volunteer center directors, and board members have worked together to make literacy free and accessible for adults across San Luis Obispo County.

Through their leadership and compassion, we’re helping learners gain confidence, improve job prospects, and strengthen families — one lesson at a time.

Staff

Bernadette Bernardi — Chief Executive Officer
Leads the organization’s mission, fundraising, and community partnerships.

Anna Volkova — Data Management
Supports program operations and reporting to help track learner success and program impact.

Volunteer Center Directors

Our volunteer directors lead Literacy for Life’s community learning centers throughout San Luis Obispo County — coordinating tutors, welcoming learners, and keeping the heart of our program beating strong.

Cathy Mathewson — Arroyo Grande (Afternoon)
Marylou Hessellund — Arroyo Grande (Evening)
Michael Damer — Nipomo
Robbin Miller — Cambria
Rachel Fourer — Paso Robles
Robert Beighley — San Luis Obispo (Morning)

Board of Directors

Guided by deep community commitment, our volunteer board provides strategic leadership and ensures that Literacy for Life remains strong for generations to come.

• 

  William Herreras

  Chair of the Board, Attorney At Law

• 

  Christian Datu

  Treasurer, Financial Adviser

• Lynda Shirar

  Secretary, Therapist