Wanda Herndon with Angela Poe Russell

In her inspirational new memoir,   Working Class to Breaking Glass: One Woman’s Fight to Belong and to Lead,  Wanda J. Herndon chronicles her journey from humble beginnings to executive leadership and influence at Starbucks. Throughout her memoir, Herndon interweaves personal storytelling with reflections on identity, mentorship, resilience, and purpose. She explores how systemic barriers shape opportunity and how determination, preparation, and community support can positively change lives. Whether she’s navigating corporate culture or confronting moments of personal loss and reinvention, her story demonstrates that leadership is not a destination but an evolving journey.

Herndon’s story begins in Flint, Michigan. Her father, who dropped out of school in the eighth grade to help financially support his family in the Jim Crow South, took a life-changing bus ride North in search of freedom and a living wage. He found both at General Motors, but his dream for Herndon was different: “You should get an office job,” he insisted. Herndon took that directive to avoid the assembly line and became one of the first in her family to graduate from college. Navigating racial barriers, economic limitations, and self-doubt, she confronted the realities faced by many Black students in America during the 1960s and 1970s. At Michigan State University, Herndon pursued journalism and entered the workforce in the mid-1970s.

With each new opportunity, she refined her leadership voice and reinforced her commitment to inclusion. A turning point came when she joined Starbucks during a period of rapid transformation and expansion. At the company’s Seattle headquarters, Herndon rose through the ranks, earning a seat at decision-making tables where demographic representation had historically been absent. Her leadership extended beyond business operations-she became a cultural advocate and bridge-builder, committed to increasing opportunities for all people.

In sharing her journey, Herndon honors the sacrifices of her ancestors and parents while encouraging future generations to claim their own place at the table.