MARTINSBURG — The Eastern Panhandle Alumnae Chapter (EPAC) of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority honored Dr. Jessica Alfonso, assistant superintendent of the Department of Equity and Inclusion, as its educator of the year. The recognition took place during EPAC’s annual Jazz Brunch and Silent Auction event on April 12.
Dr. Alfonso expressed that receiving this award was significant to her, especially in light of recent changes within the country and state, including the removal of the DEI department. Despite these changes, she will continue as the executive director of Organization Development and Student Learning Experience at Berkeley County Schools, though her role is evolving. She shared her personal struggles with belonging but felt supported by those who have experienced similar situations when she received the award.
“I started out my speech saying that this was a full circle moment for me because a lot of my most cherished church family members are in this room,” Alfonso said. “These people were there in my formative years and I’m being recognized for something that I did on a senior leadership role in Berkeley County.”
Alfonso grew up in Berkeley County and graduated from Martinsburg High School. She described herself as an apathetic student who “fell through the cracks.” Her perspective shifted after attending Shepherd University, leading her to focus on providing students with a sense of belonging.
“I was one of those kids that wasn’t too much of a disruption and was just getting by,” Alfonso said. “And we have a lot of those kids in our district, and I think since I became assistant superintendent of Equity and Inclusion, it’s really important that both students and educators alike have a sense of belonging.”
She emphasized the importance of validating individuals’ experiences to help them feel connected and engaged, particularly following the pandemic’s impact on people’s sense of purpose.
Alfonso thanked EPAC for acknowledging her work and stated her commitment to supporting students regardless of her position. She aims to ensure all students have access to opportunities for success. Other educators recognized alongside Alfonso included Patrick Murphy and Rosa Clark.
The event also celebrated scholarship recipients Sydney Bostic and Gabriela Rosario; EPAC Book Award recipients Addison Payne, Daylin Hoyler, Josiah Meadows, and Taryn Boyles; EPAC Service Award recipient Karen Newell; EPAC Service Award recipient Berkeley County Branch of the NAACP; Friends of EPAC Award recipients Doug and Judy Pittinger; and Arts & Letters Award recipient Shepherdstown Book Festival for their contributions to their community.
