Margaret J Cunningham

Margaret J. Cunningham**: Author, Social Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, and Library Media Specialist.

A champion for quality education and empowerment, Margaret J. Cunningham has devoted her life to creating avenues for advancement within communities. Her book, “Breakthrough Results in Education,” serves as a beacon, guiding parents on the path to recognizing exceptional educators and urging school districts to foster these high-caliber teaching attributes.

With a vision to reflect the true essence of young readers, Margaret birthed **Hope and Success Ventures**. This enterprise is dedicated to producing decodable books spotlighting children of color, ensuring they see themselves in the narratives they engage with, cultivating both self-esteem and foundational reading skills.

Philanthropy lies close to Margaret's heart. She has been instrumental in bolstering local school districts with essential educational resources. A testament to her fundraising prowess is the successful campaign she orchestrated with her son, leading to a notable donation to Wynona’s House in Newark, NJ. Moreover, Margaret's commitment to higher education shines through the **Dr. Byerte W. Johnson Collegiate Scholarship** and the **Charlotte Clarke Hill Scholarship of Perseverance** – both thoughtfully designed to support recipients throughout their academic journey.

As the National Chair of the Curriculum Committee for Jack and Jill of America, Inc. (2020-2022), Margaret spearheaded the creation of innovative K-12 curriculums, benefiting a vast network of over 12,000 families. Her leadership within the North Jersey Chapter of the same organization further accentuated her prowess, with numerous awards recognizing the chapter's community service and scholastic achievements under her guidance.

Starting her professional odyssey on Wall Street, Margaret realized that while closing deals was rewarding, her heart truly resonated with enlightening young minds. This revelation led her from a stint as a 5th-grade ELA teacher to her current role as a Library Media Specialist. Margaret's expertise lies in bridging print and digital worlds, bringing literature and new media tools alive for students through vibrant programs and events.

In everything she touches, Margaret aims to uplift, connecting the youth to their roots and inspiring them with a blend of encouragement and candid conversation. Her academic credentials, including an MA in Ed Media from Seton Hall University and an MBA from the Darden School of Business, speak volumes of her dedication. A proud member of both Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Incorporated and The National Sorority of Phi Delta Kappa, Incorporated, Margaret's journey exemplifies her unwavering commitment to education and community upliftment.