Transforming CAC’s Adult Education: Monica Shirley’s Ten-Year Legacy

When Monica Shirley, new to Atlanta after years living in Europe and Egypt, first walked through CAC’s doors in 2015 looking to volunteer, she never imagined she would spend the next decade transforming its adult education program into the robust, multi-level program it is today. At the time, Monica was simply looking to fill her days with some meaningful volunteer projects. She began volunteering in CAC’s office doing data entry, and five months later, staff encouraged her to apply for a newly available adult education manager position. Compiling her 30 + years of ESOL teaching, her CELTA degree, and her recently completed masters degree in international educational leadership, she thought the opportunity was a great way to put her talents to work. And the rest, as they say, is history. “It was the beginning of a wonderful adventure,” Monica recently shared as she reflected on her 10 years with CAC. Monica retired from CAC on December 12, 2025. When Monica stepped into the role, CAC’s adult education program consisted of three small evening classes, each an hour and a half long. Space was limited, enrollment fluctuated, and classes weren’t held consistently. One of her first goals was simple but transformational: consistency. She ensured that classes were offered continuously and doubled class time. “If an adult leaves the house, you want to make the most of their time,” she said. Over time Monica added one new advanced English level each semester. The program grew from three to thirteen classes, spanning six English proficiency levels. Computer education expanded as well—from a sporadic classes to a full sequence of Microsoft Office and advanced digital skills courses. Another game changer was the introduction of morning classes. Monica recognized that stay-at-home parents or night-shift workers were not being served by evening schedules. In partnership with North Springs Methodist Church which was accessible by MARTA and to several apartment communities, CAC opened its first morning classes. The response was overwhelming, with parents arriving with young children, grateful for the opportunity to learn English. This led to incorporating a steady offering of 6 levels with morning and evening classes. Monica also digitized registration, streamlined internal systems, and embraced new technologies to support teachers and students. Behind every innovation was a deep sense of purpose. Guided by the Japanese philosophy of ikigai which is the intersection of passion, knowledge, service, and need. Monica believed adult education succeeds only when students as well as volunteers feel seen, supported, and empowered. Her gratitude for her volunteer teachers runs deep. “These professionals amaze me. They are so devoted and give their time, talent, and knowledge to their students and our program for free. There is no exchange of money—only of love, values, and intelligence. It was such a privilege to guide them and be their boss.” As she retires, Monica is proud to leave behind a well-structured program to learn English, computers, and achieve financial goals. She looks forward to time with her grandchildren and to rediscovering who she is beyond work.  Being part of CAC and its mission has been a life experience that far exceeded her expectations. “Working here has been a blessing from day one.  Thank you, CAC!”