Alonna Berry of Milton, Del., has always had a heart to serve. Simply ask her mom, Dr. Teresa Berry, who nominated her daughter for a Jefferson Award.
“She’s always tried to help people — even when she wasn’t supposed to be helping people she was out doing that!” said Dr. Berry.
The innate drive to help others seems to run in Berry’s family.
“I have so many great role models within my own family to think about,” said Berry. “I’m blessed to be a part of the Bryan Stevenson family.”
We caught Berry recently volunteering at the premiere of “Just Mercy” at the Midway Theater in Rehoboth Beach. The movie highlights the pivotal work of her relative and one of Delaware’s social justice stars.
Berry is a member of seven boards across the state of Delaware, including working to launch the Bryan Stevenson School of Excellence. She’s also a board member for the Delaware Historical Society and the Milton Historical Society. Plus, the Delaware native is a member of the Delaware Center for Justice.
Over the years, the educator has tirelessly advocated for several causes – from prison reform to running after-school programs.
“I have made purposeful decisions to be in Delaware, to stay in Delaware, to come back to Delaware after college because I think it matters,” said Berry.
Berry is also an active member of the Sussex County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. — a public service sorority focused on helping others.
“She is the epitome of what our organization represents, and she’s dedicated to the causes of social justice, education, political awareness,” said Sherita Belle, president of the international sorority’s Sussex County Alumnae Chapter. “We’re so, so very proud to have her as a member of our chapter. We just love her.”
Those are just some of the reasons why Berry has been named a 2020 Jefferson Awards winner, which are given annually to volunteers on Delmarva who provide extraordinary public service.
About the Jefferson Awards
WBOC is proud to be a local partner of the Jefferson Awards, which are presented to unrecognized citizens on Delmarva who provide extraordinary public service. The Jefferson Awards are presented on two levels: national and local. The mission of the Jefferson Awards is to encourage and honor individuals for their achievements and contributions through public and community service.
The 2020 Jefferson Awards are made possible through the support of our local sponsor, Nanticoke Memorial Hospital.
