The Californer - Children Rising Appoints Marshelle A. Wilburn as New Executive Director

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Marshelle Wilburn at Children Rising offices.

Longtime educator and community leader steps in as Children Rising expands access to individualized learning support for Oakland children.

OAKLAND, Calif. - Californer -- Children Rising, a nonprofit serving students in under-resourced Oakland schools through one-on-one literacy, math, and family support programs, today announced the appointment of Marshelle A. Wilburn as its next executive director. Wilburn succeeds Jim Wambach, who is stepping down from full-time leadership and will continue in a part-time role through January to help ensure a thoughtful and seamless transition.

Wilburn joins Children Rising with more than 20 years of experience in youth development, education, community engagement, and nonprofit leadership. She most recently served as the executive director of Today's Youth Matter in Richmond, Calif., where she led organizational growth, strengthened board governance, expanded family engagement programs, and deepened community partnerships. Her previous leadership roles at Bay Area Rescue Mission, along with her long history as an educator and community advocate, reflect a lifelong commitment to helping children and families gain access to greater opportunity.

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"Everything we do at Children Rising begins with the children—their dreams, their potential, and ensuring they have a fair chance to succeed," said outgoing executive director Jim Wambach. "I have been blessed to serve alongside remarkable educators, volunteers, partners, and supporters who make this work possible. Marshelle Wilburn is the right leader for this next chapter—compassionate, experienced, and deeply committed to our children."

The Children Rising Board of Directors expressed strong confidence in the appointment. "Marshelle Wilburn is a deeply grounded, mission-driven leader who brings both wisdom and heart to Children Rising," said Board Chair Glynis Mason. "Her experience in education, youth development, and community partnership aligns beautifully with our vision. The Board is confident she will build on our strong foundation and guide the organization forward with steady, compassionate leadership."

Grounded in integrity, stewardship, and a belief in the potential of every child, Wilburn brings a values-driven approach shaped by her background in psychology, her graduate work in educational leadership, and her decades of service across the Bay Area. Her passion aligns closely with Children Rising's vision that every child has an opportunity to hope, dream, and thrive."

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"As I step into the role of executive director of Children Rising, I am filled with gratitude and a deep sense of purpose," Wilburn said. "This work brings me back to my first calling—walking alongside children as they discover their potential. I look forward to listening, learning, and partnering with our tutors, school communities, families, and supporters to help more students experience the confidence and care they deserve. I am excited to join Children Rising in making a deeper impact in the lives of the children and families entrusted to our care."

Children Rising's programs will continue without interruption, supported by dedicated staff, tutors, volunteers, and school partners as the organization moves confidently into its next chapter of helping Oakland children grow in confidence, learning, and opportunity.

About Children Rising
Children Rising is an Oakland-based nonprofit providing one-on-one tutoring, family support, and school partnerships to help students in under-resourced schools build confidence and foundational skills in reading and math. With the support of trained volunteers, educators, donors, and community partners, Children Rising helps students gain a fairer chance to succeed in school and in life.

To learn more about Children Rising, visit www.children-rising.org.