Our Funders
Reading Universe is made possible by the generous support of Jim & Donna Barksdale, the American Federation of Teachers, the Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation, and two anonymous donors.
Jim and Donna Barksdale
Jim and Donna Barksdale have made an unwavering commitment to promoting literacy in their home state of Mississippi and across the United States. Through their work with the Barksdale Reading Institute, they have been instrumental in sparking the dramatic improvement in reading scores in Mississippi. By investing in evidence-based programs, professional development for educators, and community outreach, the Barksdale Reading Institute has had a profound impact on the lives of students, teachers, and families throughout the state. Their dedication to advancing literacy has set a powerful example for fostering educational equity and empowering children with the tools to succeed in school and in their lives.
American Federation of Teachers
The American Federation of Teachers is a union of professionals that champions fairness; democracy; economic opportunity; and high-quality public education, healthcare and public services for our students, their families and our communities. We are committed to advancing these principles through community engagement, organizing, collective bargaining and political activism, and especially through the work our members do.
Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation
The Emily Hall Tremaine Foundation seeks and funds innovative projects that advance solutions to basic and enduring problems. With an overall emphasis on education, principally in the United States, it takes an active role in three major areas: Art, Environment, and Learning Differences.
The Foundation's efforts reflect the entrepreneurial spirit of their family forbearers and the founder's distinction for foresight, imagination and risk taking. They pursue their mission so that the Foundation also engenders family unity, equality, and mutual respect, and serves to educate family members in philanthropy, service and stewardship.