Even with this week’s freeze prompting a few schedule changes, the energy at Aspire remains strong. Like many across North Texas, we had to adjust our plans, and we hope our community, supporters, and students have stayed safe and warm. 

 

This weekend, we are looking forward to hosting a book distribution at Aspire’s new East Dallas building, welcoming learners and families into a space designed to support growth, learning, and connection. Then, on Monday, February 2, spring classes officially begin, marking the start of a new chapter for our students as they work toward their educational and career goals!

 

Behind the scenes, Aspire’s Program and Operations staff have been working diligently to guide both new and returning students through testing and placement, ensuring they are set up for a strong and confident start to the semester.

 

This work would not be possible without our network of partners, supporters, and volunteers, and without the determination of our learners themselves. Their commitment to learning is a powerful reminder of what’s possible when opportunity and support come together.

 

As we welcome spring students, we celebrate the courage it takes to step into a classroom, try something new, and invest in a better future. 

Toast to Literacy is right around the corner, and we are excited to begin counting down to one of Aspire’s most meaningful events of the year!

For 13 years, Toast to Literacy has brought our community together in support of adult education, helping expand access to literacy and workforce programs across North Texas. This annual celebration plays a vital role in sustaining the work our students rely on, and the impact reaches far beyond the event itself.

 

Whether you are interested in attending, sponsoring, or simply learning more about how Toast to Literacy supports Aspire’s mission, now is a great time to get involved. Tickets and sponsorship opportunities are available, and there are many ways to support Aspire this season.

 

We hope you will join us for an inspiring evening that celebrates progress, possibility, and the importance of education in strengthening families and communities.

 

To learn more about tickets or sponsorship opportunities, visit toasttoliteracy.org. Questions about sponsorships can be directed to Aspire President and CEO Paul DiBiase at pauldibiase@aspiretolearn.org.

 

Thank you for being part of the community that makes this work possible.

We are excited to welcome Dr. Paola “Lola” Esmieu to Aspire’s Board of Directors!

Lola brings more than 15 years of experience leading mission-driven work across higher education, nonprofits, and social innovation spaces, with a career grounded in expanding access and strengthening institutions that serve historically underrepresented communities.

 

She currently serves as Chief of Staff and Executive Director of Enrollment Management at Paul Quinn College, a nationally recognized Historically Black College and Urban Work College in Dallas.

 

Earlier in her career, Lola worked with City Year Los Angeles and coordinated college access and outreach programs for first-generation and low-income students, an experience that continues to shape her approach to leadership and governance today.

 

A first-generation college graduate herself, Lola holds a Doctor of Education, a Master of Law, and a Master of Science in Higher Education from the University of Pennsylvania, as well as bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Chicano and Chicana Studies from the University of California, Santa Barbara. In 2025, she was recognized by Diverse Issues in Higher Education as one of the nation’s women leaders making a difference in the field.

 

Originally from Los Angeles, Lola now calls Dallas home and remains deeply committed to building bold, mission-aligned institutions that deliver both impact and operational excellence.

 

We are grateful to welcome her leadership, perspective, and equity-centered lens to Aspire as we continue expanding opportunity through education.

Formerly known as LIFT and Aberg Center for Literacy

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