Introduction
Dear COABE Members,
With immense pride and anticipation, we are thrilled to present COABE’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan—a visionary roadmap that will guide our organization through the next transformative chapter in adult education. This plan reflects our steadfast commitment to leadership, innovation, and excellence as we continue to serve the field and strengthen opportunities for adult learners nationwide.
Developed through a collaborative process that engaged a diverse range of members and stakeholders, this strategic plan reflects our shared priorities and aspirations. It captures the perspectives of COABE’s Board of Directors, leadership team, staff, partners, and members, ensuring alignment with our collective vision for the future. In addition to outlining our goals, objectives, and strategies for the next three years, this plan introduces our refined mission and vision statements—thoughtfully crafted to reflect both who we are today and where we aspire to go. Together, they serve as a guiding compass for our work.
At the heart of this plan are three core principles: Lead, Equip, and Empower. These pillars shape our strategic goals and represent our dedication to advancing adult education. By leading with innovation, equipping educators and programs with high-quality resources and professional development, and empowering learners and communities, we will build upon our successes and create new pathways for growth and impact.
A cornerstone of this strategic plan is the elevation of student voices. Over the next three years, COABE will focus on expanding student engagement and creating meaningful opportunities for learners to participate in and contribute to our mission. Through these efforts, we aim to ensure that their experiences, perspectives, and achievements remain central to the work we do.
We also remain deeply committed to strengthening networking, collaboration, and professional development opportunities for the adult education community. While COABE has a long-standing legacy of excellence in these areas, we will continue to embrace emerging technologies, innovative learning models, and enhanced engagement strategies to enrich our offerings and better serve our members.
We are confident that COABE’s 2025–2028 Strategic Plan aligns with your vision for the future of adult education. This plan is a testament to the invaluable contributions of our members, partners, and stakeholders whose dedication and expertise make this work possible.
As we embark on this exciting journey together, we invite you to join us in leading, equipping, and empowering the adult education field. Together, we will continue to transform lives, strengthen communities, and create lasting opportunities for adult learners across the nation.
Warm regards,
Sharon Bonney, COABE CEO & Shaketta Thomas, COABE Board President
Introduction
Our Story:
Past, Present & Future
We
Lead
We lead a diverse network of stakeholders to drive impact at the local, state, and federal level.
We
Equip
We equip the field of adult education by increasing professional development, advocacy, and data driven research.
We Empower
We empower adult learners to engage through innovative programs and services.
Calls to Action - Ways to Be Involved
Promote COABE by interacting with social media and other campaigns
Contribute expertise to COABE events and resources
Advocate at the local, state and national level for adult education resources
Educators & Associations
Adult Learners
Engage in social media
Advocate for and engage with COABE
Recruit other adult learners as members of COABE
Meet with COABE members to explore opportunities to support adult education
Make policy decisions that support the field of adult education
Promote adult education and inspire other policy makers
Policy Makers
Funders & Partners
Explore innovative partnerships that result in investments that support COABE’s membership
Bring visibility to the field of adult education
Contribute to resources and trainings to educate COABE members
Our Story - Past, Present & Future
1999
COABE was founded in 1999 with the guiding principle that adult education deserved more attention and respect at the local, state, and national levels.
We started with 1,072 members. Recruited local and state association leaders and educators from across the country.
Between 1999 and 2024, COABE disseminated 40 scholarly journals and 5 briefs.
COABE grew from 1,072 members in 1999 to 15,279 members in 2016.
COABE’s national conferences have been held in several major U.S. cities (virtually during Covid) and garnered over 23,239 attendees.
Started the Educate and Elevate public awareness campaign in 2017 that is raising awareness at the local, state and federal levels, changing the dialogue, and increasing funding for adult education. The campaign has won 8 national awards.
We have partnerships with 2,384 local programs, 49 state organizations, and over 100 national partners.
Founded the Adult Education & Family Literacy Week in 2018 that has led to over one million
connections with state and federal legislators and resulted in massive increases in funding for adult education programs.
COABE has helped millions of
adult learners find adult education programs through the Move Ahead With Adult Ed campaign.
2016
2016
