Ruth Johnson Colvin, the founder of Literacy Volunteers of America, has passed away at the remarkable age of 107. Her death occurred on Sunday at her home in Syracuse, New York, according to ProLiteracy, the nonprofit organization formed through the merger of her original initiative and Laubach Literacy.
Colvin’s work played an instrumental role in combating illiteracy across the United States and beyond. With her deep belief in literacy as a human right, she dedicated her life to ensuring access to education for all.
Her mission began back in 1962 when she was alarmed by census data showing 11,000 illiterate people living in her community. This unsettling discovery prompted her to start tutoring services out of her basement, laying the groundwork for what would become Literacy Volunteers of America.
By drawing attention to the issue, she highlighted how many Americans were unaware of their own country’s struggles with illiteracy. "We thought illiteracy was in India, Africa, China. Not in America," she expressed, reflecting on the early days of her fight against illiteracy.
With the help of local volunteers, she developed programs to teach basic reading and writing skills. Her initiative quickly grew, gaining traction both nationally and internationally, transforming from local tutoring to global literacy movements.
Under her stewardship, Literacy Volunteers of America flourished, training thousands of tutors and impacting countless lives. By the mid-2000s, the organization merged with Laubach Literacy to form ProLiteracy, which today boasts around 10,000 tutors stretching across 42 U.S. states and many other countries.
Throughout her six-decade career, Colvin remained devoted to adult literacy, often traveling abroad to support literacy initiatives around the globe. Her husband, Bob Colvin, stood by her side through these endeavors until his death in 2014 after 73 years of marriage.
Colvin's influence extended well beyond volunteering; she authored several books documenting her experiences and insights on literacy and education. Her memoir, published at the age of 103, allowed her to share her philosophy: "Sometimes you have to step away from security...into belief in your passions."
Her work earned her numerous accolades, including induction to the National Women's Hall of Fame and the Presidential Medal of Freedom. President George W. Bush awarded her the highest civilian honor, praising her vision and heart, and acknowledging the gratitude many felt for her contributions.
Colvin also saved extensive correspondence from her students and fellow tutors, which served as testaments to her remarkable legacy. These interactions echoed her belief: "Anyone can make a difference in the lives of others."
After her passing, voices across the nation echoed her impact, with tributes reflecting on her ivy-like growth within the realms of education. Many noted how her life’s work illuminated paths for those previously left behind by the educational system.
Even after her retirement, Colvin’s commitment to literacy never wavered. Her passion for sharing knowledge remained evident, inspiring both volunteers and learners alike.
With each passing day, her spirit and philosophy will likely continue to inspire those who champion the cause of literacy. The impact of her vision lives on as various organizations follow her blueprint to tackle illiteracy.
