At its annual Jazz Brunch and Silent Auction on April 25, the Eastern Panhandle Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. presented its 2026 Arts & Letters Award to Lynn Pechuekonis. The award recognizes her commitment to preserving the history of the community through her written works.

The event souvenir booklet included the following information:

Lynn Pechuekonis a historian and author residing in scenic Harpers Ferry. After a distinguished career in communications at the University of Virginia, she returned to her home state and developed a deep passion for uncovering and preserving the rich history of Black residents in the region. Her books include Among the Mountains: The Lovetts and Their Hill Top House and Man of Sterling Worth: Professor William A. Saunders of Storer College, both published by the Harpers Ferry Park Association.

Lynn resides in the Saunders home–just one block from the former Storer College–where she and her husband, Christian, operate a charming bed and breakfast.

A dedicated community advocate and storyteller, Lynn regularly leads lectures and guided tours highlighting Harpers Ferry Black heritage, from the Reconstruction era through the Civil Rights Movement. She continues to give back through her service as chair of the Harpers Ferry – Bolivar Historic Town Foundation, secretary of the Harpers Ferry Board of Zoning Appeals, and as a member of the Jefferson County Convention and Visitors Bureau board of directors.