Silja Kallenbach Retires as Vice President and Passes the Baton to Priyanka Sharma

World Education bids a fond farewell to Silja Kallenbach, who is retiring after serving as US Division vice president for more than 10 years and directing a multitude of projects for 17 years before that. “It has been a privilege to work for such a mission-driven organization with talented and dedicated colleagues and partners across the nation. Together we have been improving access to and quality of education for thousands of adults, with a focus on equity and social justice,” Silja says. 

The US Division has grown and diversified its portfolio of work under Silja’s visionary leadership. “As I conclude my 27 years at World Education, I can’t say ‘mission accomplished,’ but I can say we have used all means at our disposal to advance the field of adult education, illuminate its vital importance, and open opportunities for adults to improve their lives through education,” reflects Silja.

Over 16 years at World Education, Priyanka Sharma has worked in multiple capacities and projects, ranging from coordinating the National College Transition Network to leading the Digital Navigator project.  “I am deeply committed to and constantly inspired and energized by the expertise and passion for creating change that my World Education colleagues bring to their work every day. It will be an honor to nurture and support our collective vision,” says Priyanka, who will transition to this role over the next few months.

“We are delighted that Priyanka will lead the US Division and bring her strategic vision and commitment to adult education and equity,” Silja says.