Katelyn Fanaris
Founder / Executive Director
Katelyn Fanaris is a passionate advocate for literacy and education. With a deep belief in the power of reading to transform lives, she has dedicated her time and efforts to the nonprofit organization Racing to Read.
Racing to Read is a combination of Katelyn’s passions: education and racing. Katelyn is a 2nd generation hydroplane racer with the American Power Boat Association. As a former teacher in the Seattle area, Katelyn realized that she could combine her love of racing and building community with literacy. Katelyn noticed a decline in literacy rates after the COVID 19 pandemic and knew that this opportunity could encourage students, many of which may not enjoy reading, to read.
Katelyn’s journey towards supporting literacy initiatives began during her college years when she recognized the significant role reading played in her own personal and intellectual growth. Inspired by her own experiences, she became determined to ensure that every child has access to quality reading materials and educational opportunities.
With a degree in Special Education and Educational leadership and a strong background in community outreach, Katelyn brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to Racing to Read. She is committed to fostering partnerships with local schools, libraries, and other organizations to create a network of support for children in need.
Katelyn Fanaris embodies the spirit of Racing to Read, advocating for literacy and empowering communities to make a lasting impact. Her unwavering commitment to providing children with the tools they need to succeed in life sets an inspiring example for others to follow. With her leadership, Racing to Read continues to make a significant difference in the lives of children, one book and one race at a time.
Chris Fanaris
Board Member
Chris is a passionate instructor and hydroplane racer who is well regarded in both fields. Chris became an instructor for the Boeing Company working with thousands of adult learners each year after serving in the US Army and working as a military contractor.
Chris is a tireless advocate for promoting literacy among young minds as he sees the importance of reading in his students each class. As a board member of Racing2Read, he plays a crucial role in shaping our program’s vision and ensuring its effectiveness in igniting a love for reading and racing.
Chris is also a well respected hydroplane owner and driver who has years of experience in the 2.5 litre stock class. Chris currently holds all of the course world records for his class and has many racing accolades including National and Regional Championships.
With years of experience working in the education sector with a master trainer certification, , Christopher Fanaris has witnessed first hand the transformative power of literacy. His dedication to improving educational outcomes and fostering a lifelong love for reading aligns perfectly with Racing to Read’s mission.
As a trusted advisor, Christopher Fanaris brings a wealth of knowledge and a fresh perspective to Racing2Read. His dedication to empowering children through literacy and his visionary thinking are instrumental in driving our program forward, as we strive to make a lasting difference in the lives of young readers.
David Shaw
Board Member
David retired from teaching after working in the Paterson, NJ Public Schools for 38 years. During his teaching career, he worked as a classroom teacher, remedial reading and remedial math teacher, ran a computer lab, and was a library media specialist, working with general education and special education students.
He has been involved in power boat racing for more than 50 years. During that time he has been an owner and driver of boats in the Inboard Category of the American Power Boat Association. In addition, he has been a referee and inspector for power boat races for more than 30 years.
David is excited to be a part of the Racing to Read initiative which combines his passion for encouraging students to read and motor sports.
John Shaw
Board Member
John Shaw is a highly regarded teacher and hydroplane racer who has made a name for himself in both professions. As an educator, John is known for his passion and dedication to his students. He has been teaching for over 10 years and is currently a middle school teacher in the STEM field. His teaching style is student-centered and he is known for his ability to connect with his students and make learning fun and hands-on.
In addition to his work as a teacher, John Shaw is also an accomplished hydroplane racer. He has been racing for over 20 years and has won numerous championships and set 4 world records. He is the founder of John Shaw Racing, a racing team that competes in various events across North America.
John Shaw Racing is known for its innovative approach to racing. The team uses cutting-edge technology and engineering techniques to remain on the top of the podium. John is a hands-on team owner and driver, and he is involved in every aspect of the racing process from boat design and set up to race strategy.
Despite his busy racing schedule, John remains committed to his students and is often seen at school events and after school activities. He believes that education and racing are not mutually exclusive and that both can be used to inspire and motivate young people to achieve their dreams.