Atalaya Sergi Named Executive Director of the Albemarle Foundation for Education

NEWS RELEASE

(ALBEMARLE COUNTY, Virginia) – The Albemarle Foundation for Education (AFE), the nonprofit partner of Albemarle County Public Schools (ACPS), has named Atalaya Sergi as its new executive director. Established in 2022, AFE’s mission is to generate community commitment to helping every ACPS student thrive by closing opportunity gaps, enhancing student well-being, and supporting teacher retention. Sergi brings more than 15 years of nonprofit and philanthropic leadership experience to the role.

Most recently, Sergi served as national director of AmeriCorps Seniors, the federal grantmaking office dedicated to engaging older adults in service to meet local needs. She managed a $230 million budget, supported nearly 1,000 grantees, and expanded investments into more than 230 new communities.

Earlier in her career, Sergi held multiple leadership roles at Jumpstart for Young Children, where she reversed a four-year fundraising deficit in her region, directed national programming and partnerships, and implemented sustainable revenue strategies. She began her career in education and social work with Charlottesville City Public Schools.

Sergi holds a master’s degree in social work from Virginia Commonwealth University and a bachelor’s degree in sociology from the University of Virginia.

“As a product of public schools and a believer in the power of high-quality public education for all, I look forward to supporting Albemarle County Public Schools students in realizing their full potential and accessing every opportunity to thrive,” Sergi said.

Superintendent Dr. Matthew Haas said Sergi’s leadership will help expand opportunities for students. “Atalaya’s leadership and expertise in education and community partnerships will be an incredible asset to our schools,” Haas said. “Her vision will help AFE strengthen its role in expanding opportunities and ensuring equitable access to learning for every ACPS student.”

AFE Board President Randy Tripp Jr. echoed that enthusiasm. “AFE is thrilled to welcome Atalaya Sergi as our new executive director,” Tripp said. “Her experience, vision, and commitment to public education will strengthen our ability to support students, teachers, and schools across Albemarle County. We look forward to working with her to expand opportunities and create lasting impact.”

About the Albemarle Foundation for Education
The Albemarle Foundation for Education (AFE) is the designated 501(c)(3) partner of Albemarle County Public Schools. AFE mobilizes community support to meet critical needs, enrich student experiences, and create opportunities that wouldn’t otherwise exist. Through fundraising, grants, and partnerships, AFE strengthens academic performance, attendance, behavior, and school climate while helping fund new ideas, accelerate promising initiatives, and scale proven practices. To learn more, visit albemarlefe.org or email AFE@k12albemarle.org.

MEDIA CONTACT:
Jennifer Butler
Acting Chief Communications Officer
Office of Communications
Albemarle County Public Schools
(434) 260-4634
communications@k12albemarle.org