The PFSA Staff
Our staff is always ready to help. Whether it is a claim, a document change, information about an upcoming event, or simply questions about our fraternal society. We're here for you.
Meet the Staff at PFSA
John A.R. Salvador
Chief Executive Officer
Born in San Jose, CA, former resident of Santa Clara for 38 years and a current resident of Patterson. Served as Chairman of the PFSA Business Board of Directors from July 2009 thru November 1, 2015. Past Secretary-Treasurer/CEO of SES a composing Society of PFSA and a lifetime member.
Bernice Armas-Martinez
Interim Executive Secretary
Bernice Armas-Martinez was raised in San Jose, CA, after her family emigrated from Mexico. Over the many years of experience in the insurance industry, she strives to provide a high level of excellence in customer service. She is very enthusiastic to grow with PFSA family and gain knowledge of the Portuguese fraternal traditions. Bernice and her husband Juan have three amazing children, Dominik, Christopher and Kat. Bernice and her family are very passionate about helping others .
Addie DaSilva
Member Services
Addie has been working for the PFSA since 2004 and really enjoys in assisting all our members. Addie loves spending time with her family especially her seven grandchildren.
Alicia Ray
Receptionist / Member Services
Alicia has always been there for others. No matter the situation, whether known or not, she shows compassion and empathy. Taking pride in her Portuguese heritage she’s ready to go the extra mile for PFSA and its members. Alicia loves to read, watch tv shows and crochet.
Dominique Higgins
Claims Processor/ Member Services
Born in Fremont, CA and currently residing in Modesto, CA. Dominique started with PFSA February of 2019. Dominique started as the receptionist/ member services representative and is now PFSA claims processor. Dominique has over 8 years of experience in customer service and finds great reward in using those skills to help our members in whatever way possible. Dominique’s so excited to be a part of PFSA and is loving to get to know everyone involved with the PFSA family.
Edwarda Costa Alderete
Executive Treasurer
Edwarda Costa Alderete is Portuguese raised in Manteca, after her family emigrated from Terceira, Azores . She has an extensive background in accounting and customer service. Shortly after college she worked in banking for 15 years. Her and her husband own and have operated a restaurant for 20+ years. With their five daughters grown, she looks forward to expanding her knowledge of the Portuguese community and its rich culture.
Tiffany Sheppa
Accounting Technician
Jerry Escobar
Fraternal Activities Director/Marketing
Jerry was born in San Jose, California and raised in nearby Santa Clara after his family emigrated to the US from Faial, Azores. He has a background in design, branding, and community engagement. Prior to PFSA, he worked in high tech marketing and brand management consulting. In his role, he uses his passion for Portuguese culture and marketing to design programs that actively engage our members, promote our heritage, and give back to the community.
Victor Fernandes
Sales Manager
With over 28 years of experience as a sales manager, including 15 years in a Fraternal Benefit Society, Victor is committed to leveraging his breadth of understanding, product knowledge, and industry expertise to enhance the value our members get from being a part of our Society. Victor Holds a Bachelor’s in Business – Sales and Sales management.
If you would like to discuss how he or any member of the sales and home office team can assist you, please don’t hesitate to contact him.