60 Years of Reading Is Fundamental with Alicia Levi and Jack Remondi

In this special 60th anniversary episode of Reading Inspires, host Dr. Erin Bailey speaks with Alicia Levi, President and CEO of Reading Is Fundamental, and Jack Remondi, Chairman of RIF's Board of Directors, to reflect on six decades of literacy leadership. The conversation explores how RIF's mission has remained steadfast since 1966—closing the gap in book access for children who need it most. While the core challenge persists, today's landscape is more complex, with digital inequities, learning loss, multilingual communities, and competing technologies requiring innovative solutions. Both guests emphasize that RIF's ability to adapt while staying true to its mission has been key to the organization's sustained impact.The episode highlights RIF's bold vision for the future, centered on the announcement that through Skybird, RIF's ebook platform, every child in America now has access to 100 free books—a transformational milestone that fulfills the organization's founding aspiration. Alicia and Jack share powerful stories of children's joy at book distribution events, from a second-grader exclaiming "it's like Christmas with books" to children asking "is this really mine?" Their message is clear: reading changes lives when it's accessible, relevant, and joyful, and everyone—parents, educators, donors, and advocates—has a role to play in shaping the next 60 years of reading in America.About Alicia Levi: Alicia Levi currently serves as President and CEO of Reading Is Fundamental (RIF). Over the last five years, Alicia’s vision and guidance has led to an increased digital presence offering substantial book resources, a greater depth and breadth of community engagement, growth of program offerings including its eBook library, Skybrary and an enhanced focus on the importance of race, equity and inclusion within children’s literacy. During Alicia’s tenure RIF reached the milestone of serving its 100 millionth child. Throughout her career, Alicia has been focused on education and has worked to transform the lives of children through smart strategies to improve academic outcomes.About Jack Remondi: Jack Remondi currently serves as the Chair of Reading Is Fundamental's Board of Directors. Jack is a Financial Services Chief Executive Officer recognized for numerous industry firsts. A seasoned change agent, he innovates strategically and operationally, yielding sustainable growth, enhanced profitability, and greater shareholder value. He finds ways to solve the most complex organizational challenges with integrity and a balanced commitment to shareholders and employees.