The Jackson County Herald-Tribune has a new addition to the staff, Deidra Whitley, who is the new advertising sales representative. Most people might know her from her volunteer work as treasurer with the JC Youth Fair or Edna Lions Club, where she’s held a number of offices for many years. You may also know her fundraising work with the Morales Community Center, or helping out with the JC Chamber of Commerce.
Born in Victoria to Donald and Robbie Whitley, one might know her parents as well.
“My dad is from here, my grandparents are from here, and my mom coached at Edna High School, she coached the state championship team in basketball during the 1964-65 school year,” Whitley said. “Her picture is in the trophy case at the new gym.”
Since her parents were both teachers who worked in several school districts, Whitley remembered attending and graduating from Clear Creek High School in League City, but they were always visiting Edna during the summers, weekends and vacations, due to the cattle and land they owned.
“I’ve been living here since the 90s, once my parents retired, so more than half my life now,” she said.
While working for civil engineering group John D. Mercer & Associates Inc., Whitley attended the University of Houston and earned her business degree. She also worked with David Sheblak, who coaxed her to be in the Edna Lions Club because he was a member as well.
Deidra Whitley
“I was immediately made secretary and six months later they made me treasurer as well. I did that for many years, and around that time I was made treasurer of the fair board, I’ve been doing that for over 20 years. That’s my contribution, since I don’t have any kids, and I’ll do that until I die,” Whitley said. “Now I’m currently a co-treasurer with Kendra Boone for the past several years, and she’s been a tremendous help.”
In addition, she executes the public relations advertising for radio and newspaper for the fair, which she’s able to draw on for her job with the JCHT.
She’s just into her fifth week with the newspaper, and is enjoying it so far. So don’t be surprised if Whitley pops up at a business near you, because she’s been going around town introducing herself.
“I appreciate everyone’s support,” she said. “The newspaper can’t be the newspaper if something isn’t contributed. We can’t put articles if there isn’t advertising, so let us know what’s going around in the county because there’s only so many people on staff.”
Deidra Whitley (last name pronounced like white-lee) can be reached at 361-782-8305, or email her at sales@jacksonconews. com.
