Jennifer Vaida, CEO

As the new Chief Executive Officer of Nashville Adult Literacy Council, Jennifer Vaida is honored to carry forward the organization’s longstanding mission to help adults in Nashville build the reading, writing, and English-speaking skills they need for the lives they want. She understands that literacy is more than decoding words on a page; it is the foundation for communicating effectively, navigating work and daily life with confidence, and participating fully in the world around us. Her leadership is grounded in clarity, respect, and a firm belief in every adult learner’s capacity to grow at any stage of life.

With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofit leadership and public service, Jennifer has worked across education, public health, and community-based systems to expand access to transformative services. Her career includes senior leadership roles such as Chief Strategy Officer and Chief Program Officer, where she supported organizational growth, strengthened partnerships, and advanced sustainable, mission-focused impact. Her direct service experience with learners of all ages continues to shape her approach and reinforce her commitment to person-centered work.

Jennifer holds a Master of Public Health and brings a collaborative, community-focused perspective to her role. Under her leadership, NALC enters its next chapter with a strong foundation and a continued commitment to advancing literacy as a pathway to opportunity for adults across Nashville.