The Texas Council of Teachers of English Language Arts (TCTELA) proudly celebrates the remarkable achievements of Malene Golding, this year’s recipient of the Mercedes Bonner Leadership Award. This prestigious honor recognizes individuals who exemplify outstanding leadership in literacy education, and Malene’s tireless efforts to champion cultural representation and literacy for all make her a truly deserving recipient.

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Malene Golding wears many hats with exceptional grace and expertise. As a Guyanese American, she brings her cultural roots into every aspect of her work, infusing vibrant energy and rich perspectives into her advocacy. She is a devoted mother and wife, and the CEO of Golding Touch Education Consulting, LLC. In addition, she serves as a collegiate professor at the University of Houston–Clear Lake, the past president of the Texas Association for Literacy Education (TALE), and the Director of Elementary Literacy for Houston ISD. With over two decades of experience as an educator, Malene’s career spans classrooms, boardrooms, and professional development sessions. Her ability to connect with educators and learners alike underscores her unwavering commitment to literacy and cultural inclusion.

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Malene is described as “bold, bright, compassionate, and readily available to lend multiculturalism in literacy on demand.” Her conversations about cultural representation and the urgent need for literacy education are deeply insightful, impassioned, and supported by the best resources. Her dedication is not limited to her professional achievements. Malene actively participates in diverse book clubs and leads professional development initiatives spanning early childhood education to collegiate settings. Her focus on ensuring that all learners—regardless of age, background, or ability—have access to texts that reflect their identities exemplifies her vision for inclusivity in literacy.

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What sets Malene apart is her collaborative nature. She is not a silo of expertise but a gatherer of ideas, a promoter of talent, and a cheerleader for others. Whether sharing her own insights or amplifying the voices of her colleagues, Malene demonstrates humility and a genuine desire to uplift others. Her ultimate goal is clear: to ensure every individual has the power and freedom that literacy brings.

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Malene’s expertise is reflected in her many publications, which continue to guide and inspire educators. Her commitment to literacy is unmatched, and her ability to blend cultural representation with academic rigor makes her a true leader in the field. This award celebrates Malene’s unwavering commitment to education and her ability to blend cultural richness with academic excellence.

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Malene Golding’s recognition with the Mercedes Bonner Leadership Award is a testament to her extraordinary contributions to literacy and education. She is a beacon of hope, a champion for diversity, and a relentless advocate for ensuring that every child and adult has access to the transformative power of reading. The TCTELA community celebrates Malene Golding with pride and gratitude for her invaluable leadership. Her work not only honors the legacy of Mercedes Bonner but also paves the way for a brighter, more inclusive future for literacy education.