Meet Our Staff

Kathy Houghton – Executive Director / STAC Director

Kathy Houghton is the Executive Director of Literacy New York.  In this position, she creates, implements, and monitors systems and procedures to ensure delivery of grant and project deliverables, and supports staff in meeting outcomes.  Prior to becoming LNY's Executive Director, Kathy was the Director of Program Services for LNY for 12 years.  

Kathy is also a certified trainer, and facilitates workshops and presentations locally, regionally, nationally, and virtually.  Her training certifications include many aspects of adult education including learning disabilities, reading, and writing. She is also a member of the national ADA trainer leadership network and qualified to deliver a nationally-vetted curriculum of workshops on ADA related topics.  

Kathy has a Bachelor of Arts in Business and English from Skidmore College, and a Masters in English from the University of North Florida.  ([email protected])

Mary Jo Pelletier – Data Assistant

Mary Jo Pelletier is the STAC Data Assistant for Literacy New York. She supports Literacy New York programs with their data and the ASISTS online software, to insure NYRS compliance.  Mary Jo worked with the refugee population for many years in an adult ESL program before coming to work for Literacy New York.  She has attended numerous trainings and certification workshops pertaining to the New York Reporting System.  She has a BS in Economics/Business from Edinboro University of Pennsylvania.  ([email protected])

Kitty Hotles-Samson – Program Assistant

Kitty Hotles-Samson is the Program Assistant for Literacy New York. One of her roles is working directly with Adult Literacy Education funded literacy agencies and potential tutors across the state, supporting them in our Intake to Outcomes (I2O) online tutor training program. Kitty is passionate about helping those seeking literacy help. Another role of Kitty's is assistant to the Executive Director. She has a background in hospitality, media broadcasting, direct sales and has a BFA from Niagara University.  ([email protected])

Mary Abousaid – Director of Finance and Operations

Mary Abousaid is the Director of Finance and Operations for Literacy New York, Inc.  As the Director of Finance and Operations, Mary prepares accurate and comprehensive financial information for the Executive Director, Board of Directors, and Program Managers to enable them to conduct their due diligence in financial oversight, organizational and financial planning and decision making.  She earned her Bachelor's Degree from SUNY College at Buffalo and an MBA from Medaille College.  ([email protected])