Wanda Webster Stansbury: A Life of Purpose, Leadership, and Community Empowerment

Table of Contents

Introduction

Wanda Webster Stansbury stands as a beacon of hope, leadership, and innovation in the fields of economic development, education, and community empowerment. With a career spanning over four decades, Wanda has devoted her life to uplifting underserved communities, advocating for educational equity, and creating environments where families and children can thrive. As the founder and executive director of the Center for Child and Family Achievement (CCFA), as well as a published author, Wanda’s influence continues to expand, inspiring new generations of leaders and changemakers.

This article delves into Wanda’s journey, highlighting her professional milestones, her recent work—including her 2025 book The Purposeful Marriage—and her unwavering commitment to making a lasting impact in the world.

Early Life and Academic Foundations

Wanda Webster Stansbury’s story begins with a deep-rooted passion for learning and social justice. Raised in a family that valued education and community service, Wanda was encouraged from a young age to pursue knowledge and to use her talents for the greater good.

Her academic journey is marked by excellence and a commitment to urban and social issues. Wanda earned her Bachelor of Arts from Rider University, followed by a Master of Education from The College of New Jersey. She furthered her expertise with special studies in Urban Studies at Wells College, equipping herself with the tools to address the complex challenges facing urban communities.

These formative years laid the groundwork for Wanda’s lifelong dedication to education, equity, and empowerment.

The Birth of a Vision: Management Interventions, Inc.

In 1981, Wanda Webster Stansbury took a bold step by founding Management Interventions, Inc., a public policy research firm. At a time when few women—especially women of color—held leadership roles in policy and research, Wanda’s initiative was groundbreaking.

Management Interventions, Inc. specialized in serving diverse communities through public information campaigns, bilingual outreach, consensus building, and environmental justice processes. Under Wanda’s leadership, the firm became known for its innovative approaches to conflict negotiation and stakeholder engagement. She worked tirelessly to bridge the gap between policymakers and the communities they served, ensuring that marginalized voices were heard and respected.

For over three decades, Wanda led the organization, guiding it through changing social and political landscapes. Her work influenced public policy, promoted environmental justice, and empowered countless individuals to become advocates for their own communities.

Academic and Research Contributions

Wanda’s impact extends beyond organizational leadership. Her research and advocacy have been featured in academic publications, including “Self-Help: The Empowering Process; Breaking the Cycle of Poverty” by Cornell University. Through her scholarship, Wanda has helped shape legislation and public discourse on issues affecting urban women, families, and children.

Her research is characterized by a focus on empowerment, self-sufficiency, and the importance of community-driven solutions. Wanda’s work has provided policymakers and practitioners with valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing underserved populations.

Founding the Center for Child and Family Achievement (CCFA)

In 2014, Wanda Webster Stansbury founded the Center for Child and Family Achievement (CCFA), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting low-income students from kindergarten through fifth grade and their families. The mission of CCFA is to provide resources and programs that enhance academic achievement and mitigate the effects of limited income and parental education on learning outcomes.

CCFA’s Core Programs and Impact

Under Wanda’s leadership, CCFA has developed a range of initiatives designed to address the unique needs of children and families in underserved communities:

Academic Support: CCFA offers tutoring, mentoring, and enrichment programs that help students build foundational skills in reading, math, and science.
Family Engagement: Recognizing the critical role of parents and caregivers, CCFA provides workshops and resources that empower families to support their children’s education.
Community Partnerships: CCFA collaborates with schools, local organizations, and businesses to create a network of support for students and families.
Advocacy and Outreach: Wanda and her team advocate for policies that promote educational equity and access to resources for all children.

The impact of CCFA is evident in the improved academic performance, increased confidence, and stronger family bonds among the children and families it serves. Wanda’s vision for CCFA is rooted in the belief that every child deserves the opportunity to succeed, regardless of their background or circumstances.

Recent Achievements: “The Purposeful Marriage” (2025)

In March 2025, Wanda Webster Stansbury, alongside her husband Charles Sumner Stansbury, co-authored and published “The Purposeful Marriage.” This guide draws on their 50 years of marriage experience and focuses on building a faith-centered marriage grounded in biblical principles.

The book emphasizes the importance of commitment, honesty, and God’s design for a lasting union. Wanda and Charles share personal stories, practical advice, and spiritual insights, offering readers a roadmap for nurturing strong, resilient relationships. “The Purposeful Marriage” has been praised for its authenticity, wisdom, and relevance to couples at all stages of life.

This publication marks a new chapter in Wanda’s journey, expanding her influence beyond education and community development to the realm of personal growth and family well-being.

Leadership Style and Philosophy

Wanda Webster Stansbury’s leadership is characterized by empathy, vision, and a relentless pursuit of justice. She believes that true leaders empower others, foster trust, and create environments where people can thrive.

Key Principles of Wanda’s Leadership

Empowerment: Wanda delegates authority and encourages her team to take ownership of their work. She believes that empowered individuals are more creative, motivated, and committed to achieving results.
Continuous Learning: Wanda promotes a culture of lifelong learning, investing in professional development and encouraging her team to pursue new skills and knowledge.
Diversity and Inclusion: Wanda builds teams with diverse backgrounds and perspectives, understanding that diversity drives innovation and leads to better decision-making.
Transparent Communication: Open dialogue and constructive feedback are central to Wanda’s leadership style, fostering an environment where everyone feels heard and valued.
Purpose-Driven Goals: Wanda aligns organizational objectives with a broader mission to create positive impact, believing that purpose fuels passion and drives sustainable success.

Ongoing Work and Vision for the Future

As of February 2026, Wanda Webster Stansbury continues to lead the Center for Child and Family Achievement, focusing on initiatives that support educational success for children and families in underserved communities. Her work remains as relevant and impactful as ever, addressing the evolving needs of society in a rapidly changing world.

Wanda’s vision for the future includes:

Expanding CCFA’s Reach: Wanda aims to extend CCFA’s programs to more communities, leveraging technology and partnerships to reach a broader audience.
Advocating for Policy Change: Wanda continues to advocate for policies that promote educational equity, family engagement, and community empowerment.
Mentoring the Next Generation: Wanda is committed to mentoring emerging leaders, sharing her knowledge and experience to inspire others to pursue careers in public service and social impact.
Promoting Holistic Well-Being: Through her writing and public speaking, Wanda encourages individuals and families to prioritize holistic well-being—spiritual, emotional, and physical health.

Recognition and Legacy

Wanda Webster Stansbury’s contributions have been recognized by peers, institutions, and the communities she serves. Her leadership in economic development, education, and public policy has set a standard for others to follow. Wanda’s legacy is one of empowerment, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice.

Her work has inspired countless individuals to become advocates for their own communities, demonstrating that meaningful progress is possible through collaboration, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice.

Conclusion

Wanda Webster Stansbury’s life and work exemplify the power of dedication, vision, and community engagement. From founding impactful organizations to influencing public policy and authoring a book on purposeful marriage, her legacy is one of empowerment and positive change.

As communities continue to face new challenges, leaders like Wanda serve as a reminder that meaningful progress is possible through collaboration, compassion, and a relentless pursuit of justice. Her story inspires us all to lead with purpose, embrace challenges, and empower those around us.

Whether you are an aspiring leader, an educator, or someone seeking inspiration, Wanda Webster Stansbury’s example offers practical wisdom and encouragement for making a lasting impact in the world.