OG Charleston is thrilled to announce the appointment of Catherine Hagberg (pictured) as the Director of the Lowcountry Literacy Project. With a distinguished career spanning 25 years in education and leadership, Catherine will play a vital role in scaling the project’s impact across the Lowcountry.
The Lowcountry Literacy Project is dedicated to equipping educators with the tools needed to transform literacy instruction and outcomes for students. In her new role, Catherine will spearhead efforts to refine the Lowcountry Literacy Project’s training model, oversee its growing network of partner schools, and expand training and specialized coursework.
“Catherine’s depth of experience and commitment to literacy education make her the perfect leader to expand our reach and strengthen our partnerships,” said Lindsey Ballenger, Co-founder and Board Chair. “Her leadership will ensure that more educators receive high-quality training and more students gain access to evidence-based literacy instruction that can change the trajectory of their academic futures.”
Catherine’s career has been defined by her passion for literacy and her commitment to equipping teachers with the knowledge and strategies needed to close literacy gaps. She is a Fellow of the Orton-Gillingham Academy and serves on the OGA Standards Committee, where she helps maintain the organization’s certification and accreditation standards. Catherine is also the co-owner of Lowcountry OG Training alongside OGA Fellow and project partner Susan Nyman.
This strategic move strengthens the partnership between OG Charleston and Lowcountry OG Training, creating greater alignment and synergy in advancing literacy initiatives across the region. The collaboration will enhance the quality and reach of professional development offerings, ensuring educators have access to the most effective, evidence-based instructional practices.
“I am honored to lead the Lowcountry Literacy Project at such a pivotal time,” said Catherine Hagberg. “Ensuring that all students receive the explicit, structured literacy instruction they need is my life’s work, and I look forward to working with educators across the Lowcountry to make a lasting impact.”
The Lowcountry Literacy Project is an initiative of OG Charleston and remains committed to bridging the literacy gap and equipping educators with the training they need to drive real change in student outcomes. Catherine’s leadership marks a new chapter in the organization’s journey, bringing a renewed focus on excellence, innovation, and measurable impact.
For more information about the Lowcountry Literacy Project, visit www.ogcharleston.org.