Troy, N.Y.: Literacy Volunteers congratulates Elshekh Saad and Mariama Massaquoi, two English Language Learners who have become naturalized U.S. citizens. Sworn in on January 20 and 27, respectively, Mr. Saad and Ms. Massaquoi took the Oath of Allegiance at the United States District Court in Albany. The hour-long ceremonies began with welcoming remarks from the judge and elected officials, and included patriotic songs performed a cappella by guest vocalists. Certificates of Citizenship were presented to almost 60 people on each occasion.

Mr. Saad, a native of Sudan, has been a student in the workplace literacy program at Blasch Precision Ceramics for four years. Ms. Massaquoi, who resided in Liberia prior to coming to America, participated in the English Literacy Civics program and is now learning to sew while improving her English skills each Saturday afternoon at the Sewing and English class in Rensselaer. All three programs are staffed and administered by Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County.

Literacy Volunteers of Rensselaer County recruits and trains volunteers to provide individual and small group tutoring. A professional staff supports volunteer tutors, tutor trainers, planners, and board members who make the programs run. LVORC is an affiliate of Literacy New York and accredited by ProLiteracy America.