Inspired by her grandparents, Reverend Sheila Acevedo Limontas made it her mission as a young girl to help others. Her grandparents encouraged her to study hard, follow her dreams, and be kind. Acevedo Limontas used these skills to teach and help others.
After learning she was eligible for War Orphans Benefits, Acevedo Limontas earned a bachelor’s degree in English language education in 1972 and a master’s degree in education in 1977 from the University of Central Florida. Acevedo Limontas continued her advanced studies in international education, theology, and leadership.
A Career Rooted in Service and Advocacy
Through Angela’s GEMMS Inc., Acevedo Limontas has partnered with others to raise funds, manage daily operations, and work directly on critical issues like domestic violence, human trafficking, poverty, displacement, and mental health. As a member of the South Florida Haiti Project, she actively supports essential infrastructure projects for the community of Bondeau in Haiti.
Acevedo Limontas’ career is marked by her longstanding involvement in humanitarian organizing. She has managed key responsibilities as a community advisor for the Haitian American Solidarity Center.
Acevedo Limontas has also been a board member and goodwill ambassador for Real Life Children’s Ranch and an educational advisor for Operation Restoration Christian School in Trenchtown, Jamaica. Her dedication to community service led to her ordination as a vocational deacon by the Diocese of Southeast Florida in 2016. This role has allowed Acevedo Limontas to extend her outreach further, providing spiritual and educational support through various Episcopal congregations.
Beyond her nonprofit efforts, Acevedo Limontas boasts over 35 years of experience in education. She has made significant contributions in the education sector, from teaching Spanish to working as a specialist in English for Speakers of Other Languages. Her higher education is evident in her impact, where she served as an adjunct professor at notable institutions, including Nova Southeastern University and Palm Beach Atlantic University.
Recognition for a Lifetime of Dedication
Acevedo Limontas’ efforts have earned her recognition. She has secured over $13 million in grant funding to support schools, nonprofits, and organizations dedicated to assisting youth, immigrants, and the homeless.
She has also earned numerous accolades, including the Bishop of the Diocese Southeast Florida Lay Leaders Award, the Human Progress Award from the Haitian American Solidarity Center, and a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition from Congresswoman Lois Frankel. Acevedo Limontas is listed among “Two Thousand Notable American Women” for her outstanding dedication to service. She is a lifetime member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and the NAACP.
Reflecting on her accomplishments, Acevedo Limontas attributes her success to her steadfast faith, resilience, and a deep desire to serve communities. She will continue to follow the principles of Christian love, making impactful initiatives within the community and beyond.
