Supervisor Winifred Houston Zanders, a native of Cocoa, Florida, is the youngest of five children born to the late Mr. Jeff Van and Mrs. Beatrice Houston. Raised by Christian parents who instilled in her a deep respect for the dignity and humanity of all people, she learned respect for herself and others from an early age.

As one of the first black students of Brevard County, Florida, to integrate segregated schools, she confronted racism and learned to embrace cultural differences while celebrating her heritage without shame. After graduating from Sabino High School in Tucson, Arizona, she attended Stetson University.

This ambitious Woman of God turned dreams into reality for many clients during her successful career in Mortgage Banking. She has been involved in various social and civic organizations such as the NAACP, Habitat for Humanity, and the Junior League. She was elected and served as First-Vice and President of the Space Coast Mortgage Bankers Association. She retired from mortgage banking to focus on her children’s development.

Supervisor Zanders is deeply grateful for God’s grace and faithfulness which she reflects through a life devoted to service. Her ministry is defined by leadership, compassion, and dedication—whether guiding youth, supporting seniors, or helping those in need.

She was the President of the Violet Williams Missionary Society of Saint Paul AME Church, First and Second-Vice President of the East Florida Conference Minister’s Spouses Alliance. A passion for education and youth development led Supervisor Zanders to the inception of Camp Xtreme, a summer enrichment academic program created in partnership with the Duval County Public Schools. She also served for several years as a member of the William M. Raines School Advisory Council (SAC).

Together with her husband, Bishop Marvin C. Zanders, II, they are parents of David Christopher, Marvin Frank Curtis, Esq. and Micah Van Zanders. She served in the 16th Episcopal District and currently serves as the Episcopal Supervisor for the 11th Episcopal District as well as the President of the Supervisors’ Council of the African Methodist Episcopal Church.

“This woman of God smiles, serves, and shares, trusting that she can do all things through Christ who gives her strength. Supervisor Zanders is a light in the darkness and a voice in the wilderness, proclaiming, ‘Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will direct your paths.’ ”