January 28, 2025
It is with great enthusiasm that I announce the hiring of the Durham Literacy Center’s new Executive Director: Crystal Avent! Crystal is an accomplished nonprofit leader and entrepreneur with extensive experience in program management, community engagement, organizational development, and fundraising initiatives. She is dedicated to empowering individuals through education and literacy programs* (full bio below).

Crystal begins on February 3rd and the two of us will work together through the month of February. My last day on staff will be February 28th.
Crystal’s start coincides with the beginning of the Durham Literacy Center’s 5th decade providing life-changing and accessible educational services to adults and out-of-school youth in Durham.
The role of Executive Director of the DLC requires deep passion and commitment to the students we serve. It’s a tough job, but it has brought me great personal satisfaction to see our students’ success and the resulting positive changes in their lives. I knew our board would find a worthy successor. Crystal shares the same passion and drive to serve our students and I can prepare for my departure knowing that the DLC is in very capable hands.
Crystal's email is crystal@durhamliteracy.org and can also be reached at 919-489-8383.
As I shift from employee to supporter, I kindly ask you to join me in helping the DLC transform as many lives through literacy as possible by donating to the Director’s Discretionary Fund. We’re getting close to meeting our goal!
Thank you for your continued support of the Durham Literacy Center and see you - and Crystal - in February!
With gratitude,

Lizzie Ellis-Furlong
Executive Director
*Crystal Avent's full bio:
Crystal Avent is a dynamic, results-driven nonprofit leader with 14+ years of experience in program operations, fundraising, and federal grant management, community engagement, organizational development, and fundraising initiatives. She is dedicated to empowering individuals through education and literacy programs.
A graduate of Brockport State University with a degree in Communication Studies, Crystal excels in strategic planning, team leadership, and mentoring, with a proven ability to develop programs and partnerships that deliver meaningful outcomes. Most recently, she was the Interim Executive Director and Director of Program Operations for Communities in Schools of Durham where she lead the programs and staff team for over 10 years. Her entrepreneurial ventures reflect her creative passions, including tutoring and crafting engaging lesson plans for homeschoolers.
When she’s not busy, Crystal delights in hosting charming tea parties or a conversational coffee clutch, creating moments of connection and joy for her guests. She also cherishes spending sweet time with her family and friends, finding inspiration and balance through these meaningful relationships.
Crystal brings a deep passion for creating opportunities, building strong communities, and driving mission-focused initiatives that make a difference.
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