NEA Names WNBA Legend Helen Darling as its next Read Across America Ambassador

DENVER - The National Education Association today named WNBA legend and Ohio Hall of Famer Helen Darling as its next Read Across America (RAA) Ambassador during the Association's Annual Meeting and Representative Assembly, taking place in Denver, Colorado. As RAA ambassador, Helen Darling will promote the importance of reading diverse books and the freedom to read, while leveraging targeted events like the WNBA 30^th-anniversary tour to give the nation's largest celebration of reading an opportunity to connect directly with students, families, and educators nationwide.

"On behalf of NEA's three million members, we are honored to welcome Helen Darling as NEA's Read Across America Ambassador," said NEA President Becky Pringle. "Her unique profile of athletic excellence, and sustained, demonstrated commitment to literacy reflects the mission of our year-round literacy program. Helen knows first-hand that every student, regardless of background or circumstance, deserves to see themselves reflected in the books they read and to discover the power of reading. We look forward to expanding access to literacy and inspiring the next generation of diverse readers."

Helen's approach to literacy focuses on making reading engaging and relevant, particularly for students who may have limited access to books or may not initially see themselves as readers. With a master's degree in Curriculum and Instruction focused on children's literacy, her advocacy is grounded in both passion and evidence-based practice. Helen's literacy programming supports efforts to make reading feel more joyful, approachable, and connected to students' everyday lives by incorporating elements of movement, storytelling, personal experience, and community involvement.

"As a former WNBA player, I understand the power of practice. Reading is practice for life. Every page helps children strengthen their minds, grow their confidence, and prepare for the future," said Helen Darling. "A child with a book in their hands has an opportunity in front of them. My hope is that every child finds a story that sparks something inside of them and reminds them that their own story matters too. I am honored to serve as NEA's Read Across America Ambassador because literacy has the power to change lives, families, schools, and communities. Helping children fall in love with reading is one of the greatest assists we can give."

In her decade-long professional basketball career, Helen played with the Cleveland Rockers, Minnesota Lynx, Charlotte Sting, and San Antonio Silver Stars. Off the court, she has dedicated herself to community engagement, winning two WNBA Community Assist Awards and serving as a spokesperson for organizations like March of Dimes, First Book, and the United Way. She was the face of the Read to Achieve Program, keynote speaker for National Family Literacy Day, and a guest reader on PBS's Between the Lions.

About NEA's Read Across America

Launched in 1998 by the National Education Association (NEA) and guided by a committee of educators, NEA's Read Across America is the nation's largest celebration of reading. This year-round program focuses on motivating children and teens to read through events, partnerships, and reading resources that are about everyone, for everyone.