Apr 21, 2026 By Karen Mansfield 4 min read

For more than 40 years, the Literacy Council of Southwestern Pennsylvania has welcomed people – including the region’s immigrant population – seeking to improve their literacy skills to lead successful, fulfilled lives.

It is a mission that hits close to home for Diana Dick, who was named LCSWPA’s executive director last month.

Dick’s parents immigrated from Taiwan by way of China in the 1970s to escape the communist government, settling in New York City – where Dick was born – before eventually moving to Morgantown, W.Va.

“It’s a very personal story for me. When I was very young, my parents took ESL (English as a Second Language) classes at a community program similar to the one offered here at the literacy council,” said Dick.

Those classes helped her family become naturalized citizens and build a life in the United States that has spanned more than five decades. Her father, who was a civil engineer, opened a popular Chinese restaurant in Morgantown.

“So finding the literacy council and taking on this role is really a full-circle moment for me,” she said.

As a daughter of immigrant parents, Dick feels deeply connected to closing the literacy gap for immigrants and others the literacy council serves.

“My experiences, watching my parents, shaped how I understand opportunity,” said Dick, who followed in her father’s footsteps, earning a degree in computer engineering from West Virginia University. “I saw their confidence grow. Literacy is not only about reading and writing. It gives people the ability to participate in their communities, support their families, and build a future. I am proud to lead an organization that creates these opportunities every day.”

Dick brings more than a decade of leadership experience in strategy, program growth, and team development. Most recently, she served as vice president of marketing at OneCoast, a leading national wholesale sales and marketing company. She also has experience in education, training, and nonprofit initiatives.

She said her primary goals at the literacy council include expanding access to literacy services, strengthening partnerships, and increasing awareness of adult literacy needs across Southwestern Pennsylvania.

LCSWPA offers free programs to residents of Washington, Greene, Fayette, and Westmoreland counties through in-person, remote, and hybrid formats. The organization has served people from 76 countries.

In collaboration with Intermediate Unit 1, LCSWPA provides Adult Basic Education, English as a Second Language, and GED preparation. The organization also offers citizenship classes, TOEFL preparation, and family-focused programs.

“Diana brings a clear sense of purpose and deep understanding of why this work matters,” said Dr. Christine Shaffer, president of the board of directors. “Her experience, vision, and passion will help guide the organization into its next phase of growth and service.”

Dick and her husband, Jason, of South Fayette Township, are the parents of two children, a 17-year-old daughter and a 12-year-old son.

In her spare time, Dick enjoys cooking – she loves to whip up a variety of cuisines, but her Chinese dishes are her children’s favorite meal.

Dick is delighted to step into her new role at the literacy council.

“My career has not taken a straight road. It’s been kind of a zig-zag. I feel like with a career, you sometimes have to go with the flow, you never know what path it will take you down, and mine has brought me to the literacy council,” she said.

“I’m raising the third generation from when my mom and dad immigrated, and I’d like to see that opportunity continue, just like for all of the immigrants that have come over here over the years. It is a wonderful country, and I’m proud to be here.”

The LCSWPA currently has 50 volunteer tutors and is seeking more. A tutor workshop is scheduled for May 11. For more information, contact LCSWPA at (724) 228-6188 or apply at https://www.lcswpa.org/volunteer.