Kristina DeLeGal places immense value on her commitment to being an active member of the Wayne County community, shaped by both her professional endeavors and personal background. Raised in Wayne County by her parents, grandparents, and a supportive network of mentors, she gained a diverse range of experiences in community service, outreach, education, and the nurturing of her faith.

Her connection to community service began before she was born, as her mother worked for the Wayne County Extension Service, coordinating Georgia 4-H programs. “Growing up immersed in 4-H became a significant part of my life. It led me to develop a passion for after-school programs, community clubs, outreach initiatives, and project work,” she reflects. These early experiences fostered in her a profound sense of teamwork and a drive for community change. DeLeGal actively participated in the Wayne County 4-H program long before eligibility, leading various club endeavors during her adolescence. For instance, at age 13, she honed her baking skills at the Betty Crocker kitchens in Minnesota, organizing a subsequent bake sale in Jesup. The proceeds were dedicated to the No Kid Hungry-Great American Bake Sale initiative, combating childhood hunger. Additionally, she regularly engaged in public speaking, presentations, and archery competitions. Later, during high school, she held positions on the Georgia 4-H Junior and Senior Board of Directors at the state level, serving as President and Vice President. Reflecting on these roles, DeLeGal recalls, “Leading over 150,000 youth statewide empowered me to nurture confident, responsible, and compassionate individuals, leaving me with countless cherished memories.”

Alongside her dedication to service, she pursued education, graduating from Wayne County High in 2007. She continued her academic journey at the College of Coastal Georgia, earning a Bachelor’s degree in Early Childhood and Special Education. Promptly after, she commenced her teaching career as a 4th-grade inclusion teacher at James E. Bacon Elementary in Jesup. Over the next eight years, she diligently advocated for students from diverse backgrounds at Jesup Elementary and Screven Elementary. Her tenure within the educational system involved extensive training in planning, leadership, needs assessment, data analysis, and fostering inclusive environments promoting holistic student well-being.

Through understanding the unique abilities and backgrounds of her students, DeLeGal recognized the growing needs of children and families in Wayne County. Most recently, DeLeGal has graduated from Liberty University with a Master of Arts in Clinical Mental Health Counseling, and is currently pursuing licensure to become a professional counselor. Her internship with Anchored in Wellness, providing therapy services under supervision, has fueled her ambition to support children and families. “My strength lies in actively listening to children, parents, and colleagues, addressing concerns, and creatively implementing strategies for overall well-being,” she asserts. Working as a licensed professional counselor in addition to directing Wayne County Family Connection extends her contribution to the community. “My commitment to assisting children, families, and individuals in overcoming challenges and achieving their aspirations has never been stronger,” she emphasizes.

As she has advanced professionally, DeLeGal has also nurtured personal leadership, prioritizing faith, family, and friendships. Actively involved in serving at Turning Point Worship Center, alongside her family—husband Philip DeLeGal, parents Gary and Mary Frye, and brother and sister-in-law Garrett and Halie Frye—she has served as a small group leader and full-time worship leader for the church’s Jesup and Brunswick locations. She cherishes spending quality time with her family and friends in her free time.

“Ultimately, I believe that the Lord knew me before forming me (Jeremiah 1:5), guiding my life through each experience and leadership role. These experiences have led me to the position of Executive Director at Wayne County Family Connection. I am enthusiastic about this role and look forward to connecting our community members with the resources they need. Acts of service and giving back to the community that nurtured me are not just welcomed tasks but empowering ones,” she concludes.