When Dr. Zonja Glover arrived at Hanley Academy, she saw more than a school – she saw potential. In the heart of historic Orange Mound, she envisioned a place where education, innovation, and community pride could work hand in hand to transform lives. 

Today, that vision is alive and thriving. In celebration of National Principals Month, the Memphis City Council recognized Dr. Zonja Glover for her transformational leadership in the Orange Mound community. 

Dr. Glover’s path to leadership began with challenge and redemption. Once a “troubled teen” placed in a group home, she experienced the emotional distance that too often separates students from schools. Everything changed in high school when she was assigned a mentor who showed her love, belief, and possibility. “She made me feel seen,” Glover recalled. “That’s when I began to believe I could do more, be more, and help others feel the same.” 

Those early experiences shaped the foundation of her purpose-driven leadership. She connects deeply with the students of Orange Mound because, as she puts it, “I was once one of them.” Her passion for Hanley Academy is also rooted in a respect for its legacy, a love for its community, and a drive to prepare students for limitless success. 

In just two years, Dr. Glover and her team have elevated Hanley from a Level 1 school to a Level 4 school. Her leadership is guided by three core priorities that shape every decision: reimagining the school by restoring pride and purpose through revitalization and a shared vision inspired by former principal Ruby Payne; raising academic standards by building excellence as the foundation for transformation and lifelong opportunity; and expanding college and career exposure by introducing students to new experiences such as golf, STEM programs, medical conferences, and arts enrichment. With the support of community partners like Second Presbyterian Church and the Red Zone program, Hanley has gained resources that enrich student and staff experiences. Every student receives uniforms, teachers are celebrated, and mentorship is constant. 

Dr. Glover’s approach goes beyond instruction. “Hanley is a school family,” she said. “We’re here 24/7, 365, for our students and parents.” From a new library and STEM labs to ballet performances and family-centered events, Hanley has become what she calls a “magical world where all students can thrive.” Her leadership has cultivated a culture of pride, joy, and academic progress that shines well beyond the classroom walls. 

Dr. Glover describes herself as a “builder of futures.” Her vision is clear: to offer a world-class education and private-school experience in a public-school setting. 
“There’s no glass ceiling,” she said. “Our students can be whoever they dream to be. When we empower families to believe that we change generations.” She draws inspiration from Oprah Winfrey’s words about staying true to one’s vision and believes that focus and faith are the keys to enduring success. 

Dr. Glover leads with both compassion and conviction, grounded in a deep sense of faith. She often reflects on these two scriptures, “Although you go through the fire, you shall not be burned.” “For God is within her; she shall not fail.” To her, leadership is not merely a title but a divine calling. Each day, she serves with heart and vision, guided by the belief that education holds the power to ignite generational transformation, for Hanley, for Orange Mound, and for Memphis. 

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