Freedom Readers, Inc. announces that effective July 28, 2023, founder and CEO Tracy Bailey, PhD will step away from her current role as CEO of the organization. Dr. Bailey will be on hiatus from the organization until January 1, 2024, when she will return to Freedom Readers in a new role as National Director of the nonprofit organization.

“The board of directors and I are thrilled to broaden the impact of Freedom Readers by engaging Dr. Bailey’s deep expertise and passion for breaking the cycle of poverty through improving literacy skills of children in low-income communities,” says Dr. Jamia Richmond, chairperson of the Freedom Readers Board of Directors. “Over the past 13 years, she has worked tirelessly to expand the mission and value of Freedom Readers and has positioned the organization for expansion nationwide.”

Angelina Hunt will be appointed CEO of the nonprofit. Hunt has been an integral part of Freedom Readers since joining as a volunteer tutor in 2010. She has held various positions of increasing responsibility with the organization, serving as Operations Director since December, 2018. While at Freedom Readers, Inc. Hunt has helped build a strong leadership team, expanded the number of scholars served at new and existing sites, and led the organization’s return to in-person programs after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Hunt received her Bachelors in Psychology from Coastal Carolina University in 2013. Upon graduation, she served as case manager and legal advocate for a domestic violence safe house in Myrtle Beach. Before joining Freedom Readers she served at a local law firm of 700+ clients in various roles including human resources, client management and client coordination.

“Angelina’s broad experience in multiple positions with Freedom Readers ensures that the organization will continue to advance and flourish in the region,” explains Dr. Richmond. “Her business skills combined with a passion for igniting the love of reading in young scholars will lead the organization forward as we work to improve academic performance of children in low-income communities.”
Dr. Bailey established Freedom Readers in 2010 seeking to break the cycle of poverty by improving reading skills in low-income communities. In her new role as national director, Dr. Bailey will seek opportunities to expand the organization beyond its current service areas of Horry, Georgetown and Williamsburg counties. She will work with the Board of Directors and Hunt to ensure a seamless leadership transition for the organization before her hiatus and her relocation to North Carolina.