History was made at the first 2024 meeting of the Henrico School Board, as Alicia Atkins was unanimously elected to serve as chair. She becomes both the first Black woman and the first representative of the Varina District to hold this leadership role.
Blazing a Trail Since Her Initial Election
Atkins has been blazing trails within the Henrico School Board since she was first elected to represent Varina in 2019. Her election made her the first Black woman to ever serve on the board.
She continued advancing diversity in leadership when the board elected her vice-chair in 2023. This also made her the first Black woman to serve in a board officer position.
Unanimous Vote Ushers in New Chair
On January 11th, 2024, the school board unanimously voted to elect Atkins as chair for the upcoming year. This vote made history, as Atkins became the first Black woman elected to lead the Henrico School Board.
She assumed the position from previous chair Marcie Shea of the Tuckahoe District. The board simultaneously elected Shea to succeed Atkins as the new vice-chair.
Atkins will lead the board alongside two new members elected in 2023 – Madison Irving of Three Chopt and Ryan Young of Fairfield. Despite its changes in membership and leadership, the board continues working closely together on behalf of Henrico schools.
An Experienced Education Advocate
With years actively guiding Henrico schools, Atkins brings ample experience to the chair position. She oversees Varina High School in her district and strongly advocates for education funding and support services.
As board chair, Atkins will now preside over meetings and set leadership priorities. All of Henrico’s students stand to benefit from her vision and dedication as she breaks new ground.
