GCLC Executive Board
Meet the leadership team supporting the Genesee County Literacy Coalition and its work to strengthen literacy throughout Genesee County.
Danielle Lepine
Chairperson
Danielle Lepine is the Workforce Literacy Coordinator for GST Michigan Works!, where she oversees the Talent Development Center and supports adults in building the academic, digital, and workforce skills needed to reach their goals. She holds a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from Marygrove College and also serves on the Executive Board of Flex High School.
With a background in literacy, workforce development, and community-based programming, Danielle has experience developing and supporting a variety of educational initiatives. Her experience includes two-generation and English as a Second Language (ESL) programming, as well as leadership in Family-Centered Coaching. Her work also includes building community partnerships and connecting individuals with resources to overcome barriers to education and employment. Her social work background shapes her approach to literacy, emphasizing accessibility and individualized support.
As Chairperson of GCLC, Danielle is focused on strengthening collaboration among local organizations, expanding community connections, and advancing literacy efforts throughout Genesee County.
LaDelvin Walker
Co-Chair
LaDelvin Walker is a proud adult learner, nontraditional student, community advocate, and social work professional who is passionate about creating opportunities for individuals and families to reach their full potential. She serves as Co-Chair of the Genesee County Literacy Coalition, Chair of the Danielle Brown Scholarship Fund, and a member of the Flint and Genesee Literacy Network Steering Committee, supporting literacy, education, and lifelong learning throughout the community.
LaDelvin’s connection to adult learning is deeply personal and full circle. As an adult learner herself, she understands the courage it takes to return to the classroom, navigate barriers, and believes in what is possible. Today, she proudly works and serves in the adult learning sector, helping champion other adult learners as they discover their strengths, navigate barriers, and reach their full potential.
LaDelvin holds a Bachelor of Social Work and will begin her Master of Social Work at the University of Michigan this winter. She remains committed to strengthening Flint and Genesee County by helping people access the knowledge, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive.
“Never stop learning because life never stops teaching.” — Kirill Korshikov
Jessica Kitchner
Co-Chair & Interim Secretary
Jessica Kitchner is the Director of the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network, bringing more than 20 years of experience in education, with a focus on supporting English-language learners across primary, secondary, and adult education settings. Having lived and worked abroad in both Japan and Russia, Jessica draws on her professional and personal experiences to promote inclusion, cultural competency, and equitable access to education within the community.
Jessica holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and International Relations from Central Michigan University and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Michigan-Flint. She is grateful to work alongside dedicated colleagues and community partners who share a commitment to literacy, removing barriers, and creating meaningful opportunities for individuals and families throughout Flint and Genesee County.
Jessica serves on the Boards of Directors for the Reach Resoure Services (Reach & Traverse Place) and the Latinx Technology & Community Center. She also continues her work directly with learners as an Adult ESL instructor, remaining closely connected to and advocating for Genesee County's English-language learner community.
Darlene Carey
Treasurer
Darlene Carey is a lifelong learner and continuous community advocate for Literacy. Through being a Workforce Literacy Coach at Talent Development Center, she started participating with the Genesee County Literacy Coalition as an active member for the Adult Learning Communities. She earned her M.A. in English Language and Literature from the University of Michigan-Flint and has taught at several post-secondary institutions in the Greater Flint, Bay and Saginaw areas counties including Saginaw Valley State University, Delta College, Mid-Michigan College, Mott Community College, University of Michigan-Flint, and Baker College of Flint. She worked and volunteered at several Community Writing Centers as a Professional Tutor.
She cared about her local constituents by being a community journalist for several years for East Village Magazine, so there were local voices to issues that mattered to area residents. She grew up with wonderful storytellers and tries to honor that through her creative writing and poetry.
She loves to travel with her family, often planning trips around interesting culinary experiences. She also enjoys connecting to the outdoors by doing activities, like gardening, camping, zip lining, hiking and stargazing. You can oftentimes catch her on a court, as she is an avid pickleball player. She loves her cat, Winston. Find your joy in the journey!
