Staff
Jessica Kitchner, MPA
Director | jessica.kitchner@mcc.edu| 810.232.4397
Jessica Kitchner is the Director for the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network. Jessica has spent 20+ years working in education, primarily supporting English-language learners at the primary, secondary, and adult education level. Jessica spent significant periods of time living and working abroad in Japan and Russia, and uses her professional and life experiences to promote inclusion and cultural competency within our community. Jessica received her Bachelor of Science degree in Political Science and International Relations from Central Michigan University and Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Michigan-Flint. Jessica is grateful and inspired to work alongside amazing colleagues and a network of like-minded partners committed to literacy, eliminating barriers, and cultivating positive change in our Flint and Genesee County communities. Jessica serves on the Board of Directors for the Genesee County Youth Corporation and the Latinx Technology & Community Center, and continues to be an advocate for English-language learners as an Adult ESL instructor for Genesee County’s Adult ESL population.
Heather Harrison.
Literacy and Partnership | heather.harrison@mcc.edu
Heather is a dedicated literacy advocate with interests in early childhood and family literacy. She has served as a youth services librarian, a poet/artist-in-residence in Detroit elementary schools, and as a writing instructor at the college level. Heather has extensive experience leading storytelling sessions for children and caregivers, developing story book trails, and creating strong partnerships with community organizations in support of literacy efforts. She holds a Master's degree in Library & Information Science from Wayne State University and a MFA in Creative Writing from the University of Michigan. In her free time, Heather enjoys hiking nature trails, reading classic British mysteries, and spending time with her husband and their beloved dogs.
Ella Gill
AmeriCorps RSVP -Literacy Administrative Support | ella.gill@mcc.edu | 810-232-2526
Ella Gill is a retired senior analyst from General Motors serving as a SeniorCorps RSVP (Retired and Senior Volunteer Program) service volunteer through the Valley Area Agency on Aging (VAAA). Ms.Gill attended Northwood University and obtained a Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration.
Ms.Gill enjoys being involved with programs focused on children, such as summer camps sponsored by her church. Through these opportunities she noticed that the children were lacking in their reading and math skills. To advance children's education, Ms. Gill got involved in afterschool mentoring, which made a substantial difference in the children’s academics. Ms. Gill wants to share the knowledge that she has learned from working with the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network and inform anyone that wants to further their education. Importantly, she wants to educate parents on engaging and showing an interest in their child's education. Additionally, Ms. Gill serves on the Board of Directors for Compassionate Care Network, an organization that provides housing opportunities for veterans and those seeking assistance.
Mervat Esaak
Flint Urban Safety & Health Corps - Family Advocate | 810-232-2526
Mervat Esaak is an AmeriCorps service member with the Flint Urban Safety & Health Corps serving as the Family Advocate at the Flint & Genesee Literacy Network. Mervat, a Syrian immigrant, is one of 7 siblings who were displaced as refugees throughout the world. After experiencing 8 years of civil war in Syria, Mervat arrived in Flint in 2020 where she found a welcoming and kind attitude from Michiganders and Flintstones.
Mervat began her journey in her new country at GST Michigan Works! Talent Development Center, which set her on her path and empowered her to develop skills, both professionally and with the English language. Additionally, Mervat attended local Adult ESL courses at the Genesee Intermediate School District. Mervat has a Bachelor of Arts degree in English Literature from AlBaath University in Syria and spent 8 years in administrative and retail management.
As a mother to a young daughter here in Flint, Mervat is compassionate toward children's health and hopes to help Flint families with continued recovery from the Flint Water Crisis. As the daughter of a teacher and sister to two teachers, she gravitates toward educational initiatives. Serving as an AmeriCorps member allows Mervat to immerse herself into the Flint community to forge connections, build relationships, and gain experiences.
