Deacon John H. Wilson III

Raised in a family of educators, John developed an early appreciation for learning and service. He became one of the youngest deacons ever at West Angeles Church in 1984 and later volunteered as a coach and math tutor, experiences that deepened his calling to help young people succeed.

With the encouragement and leadership of Bishop Charles E. Blake Sr., John helped build and then directed the West Angeles Education and Enrichment Program (EEP), growing it from modest math tutoring into a comprehensive, year-round college preparation program serving thousands of students from more than 50 middle and high schools across Los Angeles County. He now brings that same college readiness expertise to students and families nationwide through virtual consultations.

Under his leadership, EEP expanded to include SAT preparation, college tours, STEM, summer algebra and academic bridge programs, college readiness services, life-skills workshops and parent education. His work extended beyond EEP through coaching math teachers, consulting with charter school staff on strengthening mathematics curriculum and testifying in Sacramento on behalf on the importance of Algebra 2 in preparing students for college success.

John’s community service has included work with several boards at El Camino Community College. His honors include the NAACP Man of Valor Award, the El Camino Community Service Award and the Vertie Blackwell Lifetime Achievement Award.

Today, through the Deacon Education and Advancement Collaborative (DEAC), John is continuing the educational ministry and community-focused work that has shaped his career, drawing on decades of experience, a national college admissions network and a commitment to helping students and families navigate education, college, careers and future opportunities.