Bernice Edwards

Human Services

Owens Graduate Inspires Others to Achieve Their Goals

As executive director of the First State Community Action Agency (First State CAA) in Georgetown, Bernice Edwards often tells people, “If you have a dream and you’ve set your goal, don’t let anything deter you from achieving it. You might not reach it right away, but keep persevering, and it will happen.” Her clients take her seriously because Edwards doesn’t just talk the talk. She’s walked the walk.

At 38 years old, she sat down with her husband and two teenagers and told them she wanted to go to college. Since First State CAA works with individuals and communities to overcome the challenges of unemployment, homelessness, substandard living conditions, and hunger she knew human services was the degree for her.

Edwards knew that Delaware Tech was the perfect option for a working wife and mother. And as she worked her way up through the ranks at First State CAA, she finished her bachelor’s degree in behavioral science at Wilmington University. 

She was presented in 2004 with Delaware Tech’s Distinguished Alumni Award, which recognizes Owens Campus graduates who have made significant contributions to their communities through academic and career achievements, community service, and personal accomplishments.

Even though she’s been working in human services for many years now, Edwards still feels a passion for her job. “It’s very exhausting work, but when I see someone reach a milestone that they haven’t been able to achieve before, it’s all worth it.”