Jose Eduardo Saenz Jimenez brings an engineer’s mindset and a personal ESOL journey to his classroom, helping adult learners overcome language barriers with confidence. Through engaging, practical strategies and a strong sense of community, his students build real-world English skills that open doors to professional and personal growth.

Project Light proudly features volunteer Sandy Chase, whose creative spirit and dedication uplift students and fellow volunteers across many community organizations. Through writing, mentoring, and artistic work, Sandy supports adult learners while celebrating service and collaboration. Inspired by her family’s immigrant roots, she remains deeply committed to advancing English proficiency, literacy, and opportunity for all.

Project Light of Manatee, Inc. is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Bob Downie to its Board of Directors. A distinguished physician and dedicated Rotarian, Dr. Downie exemplifies the Rotary motto Service Above Self through his extensive record of volunteerism both locally and internationally. His medical background, bilingual proficiency, and deep understanding of community needs align closely with Project Light’s mission to empower adult learners through education and opportunity. The organization looks forward to benefiting from Dr. Downie’s leadership, insight, and unwavering commitment to service.

Tony, a former Marine and software engineer from Venezuela, brings dedication and empathy to Project Light. Drawing on his own journey learning English, he inspires adult students with patience, cultural connection, and strategies that build confidence and language skills.

Michelle, a retired bookkeeper and manager, brings patience, creativity, and experience to Project Light’s beginner English classes. Her individualized approach and encouragement help adult learners gain confidence, embrace challenges, and succeed in building language skills for a brighter future.

Grace Golden brings 36 years of teaching experience to Project Light, where she empowers adults to learn English, gain confidence, and share their cultures. Her patient, encouraging style creates a welcoming classroom that inspires students to succeed.

Charlie Cunningham, Project Light’s Board President Emeritus and longtime volunteer teacher, has dedicated over a decade to helping adult learners master English and citizenship. His leadership, compassion, and teaching continue to transform lives in our community.

Bilingual teacher and Project Light volunteer Marva Duley brings humor, empathy, and dedication to every class. Her creativity and cultural insight inspire adult learners to overcome challenges, build confidence, and master English—while uplifting colleagues and contributing to the organization’s mission.

With warmth and patience, Beverly Sass uses positive reinforcement and decades of teaching experience to help adult learners succeed. Her creative lessons, kind encouragement, and thoughtful rewards inspire confidence and progress for newcomers learning English at Project Light.

For more than five years, volunteer teacher Matt Suddes has brought patience, dedication, and heart to Project Light. His beginner English classes inspire adults to learn, grow, and succeed—reflecting his belief that learning, like life, should always be a pleasure.