Jennifer Gilkerson

Jennifer Gilkerson earned a high school diploma from Greenbrier East High School and an associate degree from Dabney S. Lancaster Community College in 1998. Her career experience includes owning a business.[1]

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My name is Jennifer Gilkerson. I’m a Monroe County farmer and small business owner. My husband and I founded Sunset Berry Farm, where I’ve spent the past 16 years working to strengthen rural communities, support local agriculture, and expand access to healthy food.

Through my work on the farm, I became the first farmer in West Virginia to accept SNAP EBT online, helping make fresh food more accessible for families. I started the Alderson Strawberry Festival, in partnership with the Town of Alderson and Alderson Main Street, to celebrate our region’s agricultural heritage. I currently serve as President of the West Virginia Agritourism Association, working to expand economic opportunities, provide quality outdoor recreation, and highlight West Virginia's rich agricultural heritage.

At Sunset Berry Farm, we are also developing a community hub that connects agriculture, recreation, small businesses, and outdoor spaces, where families and neighbors can gather and enjoy our farmland.

My work has always focused on practical solutions that strengthen rural communities, which is what inspired me to run for the West Virginia House of Delegates to represent Monroe and Summers Counties.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Agriculture is a cornerstone of the economy and heritage of Monroe and Summers Counties. Family farms help preserve farmland, support local businesses, and maintain the rural character of our communities. Supporting family farms and agricultural entrepreneurship can create opportunities for farmers to diversify and keep more income within the local economy. Expanding agritourism and local markets can attract visitors while supporting small farms. Strengthening local food systems also improves access to fresh, locally grown food and builds stronger connections between farmers and the community.Education is the single biggest factor in determining opportunity and long-term success. Strengthening education and workforce opportunities is essential for the future of Monroe and Summers Counties. Supporting teachers and rural schools helps ensure students receive a strong foundation for learning. Expanding career and technical education can provide practical skills and pathways to good-paying jobs. By creating opportunities for young people to build careers locally, we can help keep families in our communities, support local businesses, and strengthen the long-term economic future of our region.Protecting the natural resources and farmland of District 40 is essential to the long-term well-being of Monroe and Summers Counties. Our land and water support agriculture, outdoor recreation, and the rural way of life that residents value. As new industries, such as large data centers, consider locating in rural areas, their significant demands for electricity and water can place additional pressure on local infrastructure and natural resources. Careful oversight of utility pricing ensures rural residents and small businesses are not disproportionately affected by rising costs. Re-establishing strong local decision-making allows communities to evaluate development in ways that protect farmland and water resources.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Families in rural Appalachia face financial pressure from rising utility costs, as electricity and other essential services represent a significant portion of household expenses. Because these services are necessary for daily life, oversight of utility pricing is essential to help ensure rates remain fair and sustainable for residents and small businesses.

Education funding plays a vital role in long-term community stability. Public schools provide essential opportunities for students. While some families may seek alternative learning options, policymakers must ensure that public education is fully funded and consider support for other educational pathways based on individual need and income.