
Kau Nau Yang
Program Coordinator of Adult Literacy
BS, Educational Studies, University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Kau Nou has been the Program Coordinator of Adult Literacy for CMAA in Elgin since November 2024. In this role, she leads initiatives supporting ESL, ABE, and Healthcare literacy programs. Her responsibilities include coordinating student intake, managing class schedules, and coaching team members to ensure program success. As a child born to Hmong refugee parents escaping the aftermath of the Vietnam War, she understands firsthand the struggles and challenges that come with starting over in a foreign land and has witnessed her parents work tirelessly to provide for their family, facing prejudice and language barriers along the way. Despite these obstacles, they have built a life for themselves and instilled in her the values of hard work, perseverance, and gratitude. She carries these lessons with her as she navigates her path, determined to honor her family's sacrifices and make a difference in the world. Through their example, she has learned that resilience is not just about surviving but thriving in the face of adversity.
Previously, Kau Nou worked as an Adult Education Transition Specialist at McHenry County College, guiding adult learners through career-focused programs. Her tenure at Literacy Pittsburgh saw her excel as both a Program Coordinator and Enrollment Coordinator, where she enhanced student and tutor experiences through tailored services and streamlined enrollment processes. Her earlier career includes impactful roles such as Teacher’s Assistant/Child Development Specialist at The Bradley Center, where she supported adolescents with behavioral and mental health needs, and an Employment Case Manager at Lao Family Community Center, where she honed her skills in case management, social services, and outreach to various local businesses.
Fun Fact: Kau Nou has lived in five different states, including Tennessee, Wisconsin, New Mexico, Pennsylvania, and Illinois.