Zanthia Oliver
3rd District Council Member
Zanthia Oliver is a native Wilmingtonian and lifelong resident of the city. She is the youngest of nine siblings, all of whom are in the human services field. Public service and giving back are Oliver family values that were instilled in her as a child.
A graduate of Wilmington’s historic Howard High School, Zanthia also holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Marketing from Delaware State University. Through her outreach organization, Zanny Inc., she led mentoring programs for at-risk female students in the Christina School District, Bancroft, and community-based organizations. These programs focused on self-esteem, personal development, and encouraging the pursuit of higher education and outdoor activities. Additionally, she worked for years at Pritchett Associates, mentoring young ladies on hygiene, professionalism, and academic advancement in various middle schools throughout New Castle County.
In addition to mentoring, Zanthia’s volunteerism includes prior service as a board member for Addictions Coalition, Inc. She is also a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. For 40 years, Zanthia has been an organizer and advocate for her brother Norman Oliver’s Turkey Drive, delivering turkeys to seniors across the state. Her advocacy for seniors is a cornerstone of her service to the community. Her work with the Addictions Coalition, Inc., a reentry program, achieved high job placement rates for men reentering society following incarceration, thanks to Zanthia’s outreach and resources. The program also referred men to group homes, such as Oxford Houses.
Currently, Zanthia has helped form a group called “We Are the Mothers,” composed of mothers who have lost their children to gun violence. The group provides grieving counseling, support groups, therapy, fellowship, and church gatherings to support the healing process.
In her role as an Employment Coordinator for Brothers & Associates, Zanthia assists underemployed and unemployed individuals in New Castle County with job placement and career development.
As an elected official, she is committed to utilizing her platform as a public servant to advocate for quality education, workforce development, and job opportunities for underserved populations, as well as services for seniors and youth.
Standing Committees of Council
Council Member Oliver is a member of the:
• Public Works and Transportation Committee (Chair)
• Education, Youth & Family Services Committee
• Finance & Economic Development Committee
• Public Safety Committee
