The National Association for the Transformation of Adult Education recognizes Illinois State Senator Graciela Guzmán, presents award to her at Wright College

CHICAGO & WASHINGTON, D.C. (October 9, 2026)— The National Association for the Transformation of Adult Education (NAFTAE) recognizes Illinois State Senator Graciela Guzmán for her exceptional support of adult education during national Adult Education and Family Literacy (AEFL) Week, taking place September 13–19, 2026.

“NAFTAE is proud to recognize Senator Guzmán recipient of the Legislative Champion for outstanding leadership and steadfast support of adult education. This recognition honors lawmakers who demonstrate a strong commitment to ensuring adult learners have access to the education, skills, and opportunities they need to succeed—and recognizes adult education as essential to a strong workforce and America’s future,” said Erin Vobornik, Executive Director of NAFTAE.

Senator Guzmán successfully championed Illinois House Bill 5135, which officially became law on July 31, 2026.  Through this legislation, Guzmán secured the decoupling of Illinois’ adult education funding from federal rules to protect state programs and expand community college eligibility. Also, Senator Guzmán has demonstrated strong commitment to adult education by joining the Coalition to Sustain Adult Education in Chicago and across Illinois and for advocating for increased local funding to ensure adult literacy initiatives remain accessible to all learners.

“Senator Guzmán’s exceptional leadership has been instrumental in advancing the vital mission of adult education in our communities. She has consistently championed for funding for the Adult State Education programs and worked with us to expand access to our workforce development initiatives,” said President Andres Oroz. “Her dedication ensures that individuals have the skills they need to succeed, and for this we are thankful and congratulate her on the award.”

NAFTAE thanks Senator Guzmán for their commitment to ensuring that adult learners have the support they need to reach their goals.

For more information about Adult Education and Family Literacy Week, the vast legislative support for the field of adult education, and this year’s Legislative Champion Awardees, visit www.naftae.org.

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About NAFTAE

The National Association for the Transformation of Adult Education (NAFTAE) advances adult education through advocacy, public policy, and national awareness. NAFTAE mobilizes educators, adult learners, policymakers, and partners to strengthen advocacy capacity, influence policy, and elevate adult education as a national priority. Through federal and state advocacy, grassroots action, strategic communications, and leadership development, NAFTAE is working to transform the future of adult education. Learn more at naftae.org.

About Wilbur Wright College

Recognized as one of the top 150 community colleges in the nation by the Aspen Institute, Wilbur Wright College is a dynamic institution with a rich history and community, focused on student learning and completion. Wright College grants certificates and associate degrees, with its credit courses transferable to most four-year colleges and universities. Wright College is the City Colleges of Chicago Center of Excellence in Engineering and Computer Science.