Ferlecia Ashley Cuthbertson joined Barnwell County United Way in October 2021. She is a resident of Williston, SC, a Williston-Elko High School class of 1999, and a Denmark Technical College – Human Services graduate. Ferlecia is married to John Cuthbertson Jr, and they have 3 children: Jahrian, Jakeran, and Jyla.

Her love for community and people, along with her dedication to empowerment, engagement, and exposure to opportunities for all, has led to her involvement in various organizations, providing avenues for workforce development, affordable housing, and educational strategies. As a proponent of leadership development, she has participated in Furman University’s Riley’s Diversity Leadership Institute and TogetherSC’s Carolina Leadership Seminars. She is a former School Board of Trustees member for the recently consolidated Williston-Elko School District #29.

She is the founder of the African-American Heritage Parade in Williston, SC; funds from this annual event support the legacy murals painted by graduating 5th-grade students at KEES. Ferlecia is the President/Founder of the W-E CommUNITY Coalition, established over 10 years ago to address racial division and foster positive law enforcement engagement in the Williston-Elko communities. This coalition hosts an annual Back-to-School Bash, providing students with essential school supplies. Ferlecia also leads the Concerned Citizens for Barnwell County Scholars, advocating for scholar-focused, equitable implementation of educational opportunities in the consolidated Barnwell County school districts, including the construction of a new county-wide high school. She serves on several scholarship committees, advisory boards, and more. In 2024, she was awarded the Redefined Women’s Empowerment Incorporated Trailblazer Award – Community Advocate of the Year.

Of all her professional titles, designations, accolades, and opportunities, Ferlecia is most grateful for the life lessons and guidance she received from her mom, grandparents, and church elders, whose wisdom has been invaluable across all aspects of life.