New lawmaker sworn in, jumps into Special Session

Mark Fowser, WDEL.com, August 12, 2025

The Delaware General Assembly has a new member.

Alonna Berry was sworn in Tuesday as State Representative for Sussex County's 20th District, as a Special Session on reassessment was getting underway.

Berry, a Democrat, was the winner of an August 5th special election that was scheduled after Stell Parker Selby, who had missed every meeting during 2025, stepped down due to health reasons. 

"I'm thankful to my district who put their trust in me to represent them. I'm grateful to hit the ground running on day one," Berry said. 

Berry founded the Bryan Allen Stevenson School of Excellence in Georgetown. She has served as a teacher as well as with AmeriCorps. Berry is Executive Director of the Delaware Center for Justice. 

Addressing constituents, Berry added "I know it's been important and it's been critical that you have a voice in Dover. I'm ready, I'm willing, I'm excited to be that voice on behalf of Representative District 20. Let's get to work."

“It’s always exciting to welcome a new member to the General Assembly, and Representative Alonna Berry brings an impressive record of service to the House,” House Speaker Melissa Minor-Brown, D-New Castle said. “Rep. Berry’s background in education, health, and public service in both government and the private sector will be a tremendous asset to our work. We are proud to have her in our caucus and excited to work with her as she begins serving the people of the 20th District and the First State.”