Fort Worth, Texas – Monday, March 18, 2024 – LaWanda DeShazer, is the founder of her nonprofit “Communities In Action”. She is passionate about uplifting our youth in underserved communities. The compassionate evangelical work she has provided is truly exceptional, and she will receive an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Ministry from West Coast Bible College & Seminary (WCBCS). The prestigious degree will be presented to her during the upcoming honorary doctorate degree ceremony on June 1, 2024, which will be held both in-person and virtually.
Dr. Phillip S. Porter, President of West Coast Bible College & Seminary, expressed his excitement, stating, “LaWanda’s lifetime service to the community is extraordinary and we are thrilled to welcome LaWanda DeShazer into the West Coast family.”
With a Bachelor of Science in Human Resource Management and a Master of Business Administration from Southwestern College, LaWanda has a strong educational foundation. Her career began at Old Cowtown Museum, where she honed her administrative and financial development skills before moving to Sedgwick County Fire District, managing significant multi-million-dollar annual budgets, and playing a pivotal role on the senior management team. Currently, as the Senior Program Director of Community Outreach at YMCA, LaWanda’s focus on community engagement and educational programs highlights her commitment to societal improvement.
LaWanda’s involvement with various organizations underscores her dedication to civic engagement. Her roles include serving on the Executive Committee of the Wichita Branch Chapter of the NAACP, advising the NAACP Youth Council, participating on the District 1 Citizens Advisory Board, serving as the Budget/Fundraising Manager to the Wichita Golden Bulldogs Youth Organization and on the H.O.P.E. Inc. Board which is focused on affordable housing. Her efforts to combat racial profiling and her tenure on the Wichita Park Board Commission, where she fought for community resources, further illustrate her advocacy work.
The founding of her nonprofit, “Communities in Action,” reflects LaWanda’s entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to uplifting underserved communities. Initiatives like “Music in The Park”, and an annual cheer showcase demonstrate her ability to create impactful community events. Her nonprofit mentor’s youth from Kindergarten to 8th grade, both inside the school system and as after school programs. Furthermore, her evangelical work, including food distribution during the pandemic and involvement with Convoy of Hope Wichita, showcases her compassion and leadership in times of crisis.
LaWanda’s skills in business development, volunteer management, grant writing, and public speaking, combined with her recognition through awards like the Golden Eagle Award, Golden Apple Award, and the “Chester I. Lewis” Distinguished Service Award, make her a standout nominee for this prestigious honor. Her multifaceted contributions to community welfare, education, and civil rights advocacy embody the values and principles that the Honorary Doctorate aims to recognize and celebrate.
Awards
- The Golden Eagle Award -Sigma Gamma Rho for outstanding Community Service
- The Golden Apple Award – USD 259 School District for Summer Bridge Program and for Contribution to local elementary school
- Chester I. Lewis Distinguished Service Award – Wichita Branch NAACP for outstanding Community Service
In addition, LaWanda is a Licensed Evangelist.
Her favorite scripture says, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to LaWanda DeShazer on the well-deserved honor of receiving an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Ministry from West Coast Bible College & Seminary.
About West Coast Bible College and Seminary
West Coast Bible College and Seminary was founded with the mission to provide affordable Christian education. The institution offers programs such as the Diploma of General Ministries, Associate of Ministry, Bachelor of Ministry, and the Certification in Family Success. In partnership with Success Training Institute, West Coast also offers students the opportunity to earn soft skills certifications, gain access to virtual internship programs, earn additional funds for college, and more. As a leading provider of soft skills training, West Coast equips its students with valuable skills such as leadership, time management, focus, conflict resolution, and more. To learn more visit, https://westcoastbc.org.
