In honor of Women’s History Month, the Office of Fort Bend County Judge KP hosted a High Tea Panel Discussion at March 30 at Jones Creek Ranch Lodge to celebrate and recognize women who have made significant contributions and achievements in business, government, and their communities.

“Throughout the year, we celebrate the incredible women in our county who have dedicated their lives to helping our communities,” George said. “During Women’s History Month, let’s remember the progress we’ve made in support of women as we strive to create a more equitable society.”

The panel discussion featured April Jones, AL Jones Contracting Consulting Services president; DeKeha P. Shepherd, Costello, Inc. COO/Executive Vice President; Tricia Krenek, Fort Bend County justice of the peace, precinct 1, place 2; and Coretta Middleton, Community Supervision & Corrections administrative assistant.

Over 80 guests attended the event, which was moderated by Judge George’s Communications and Public Information Manager Tami Frazier, who led the discussion and interactive Q & A from the audience. Topics included finding equity in the workplace, the benefits and consequences of leadership, finding a work-family balance and barriers to female leadership.

Fort Bend County’s departing Health and Human Services Director Dr. Jacqueline Minter was memorialized for her work within the county by Judge George’s Chief of Staff Shaneka Smith at the close of the ceremony.

Jones founded AL Jones Consulting Contracting Consulting Services, LLC., a small minority woman-owned business, in 2018, specializing in mitigating risks in reviewing and negotiating contracts in the oil & gas field and supply chain management. Jones earned a bachelor’s degree in political science/legal studies from the University of St. Thomas.

Shepherd is a professional engineer who has over 25 years of civil engineering experience, specializing in land development in the Houston area. She is responsible for the management and performance of all divisions and human resources at Costello, Inc. Shepherd is a graduate of the University of Houston.

Krenek is an attorney, certified mediator, local volunteer and public servant. Krenek graduated from the University of St. Thomas, earning both a bachelor’s and master’s degree in business before earning a law degree from the University of Houston Law Center.

Middleton is a graduate of Southern University and A&M College. She built a career at LabCorps, Prudential Insurance Company and Pennzoil Oil Company. She led many petroleum and service projects at Pennzoil Oil and Chevron Phillips Company, LP, and she was promoted to treasury supervisor at Chevron Phillips. Additionally, Coretta worked with her husband at Middleton Law Firm, P.L.L.C. for 16 years. Currently, Coretta works for the Fort Bend County Community Supervision and Corrections Department.