ABOUT
The Book
Made for This is a compelling, courageous memoir about what it truly takes to lead a life of purpose and impact. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, EdD, takes you behind the titles, roles, and accolades to reveal the real story—one of grit, clarity, resilience, and alignment. From her childhood in the Midwest to global leadership roles in diplomacy, education, and government, she weaves personal stories with timeless leadership truths.
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This is not a book about checking boxes or chasing promotions. It’s a book about showing up for the life you’re meant to live. Through triumphs and setbacks, mentors and milestones, Made for This delivers a powerful message: your story matters, and the world needs what only you can offer.​
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Whether you’re an emerging leader, a seasoned executive, or someone simply looking for what’s next, Made for This offers both inspiration and strategy.
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ABOUT
The Author
DEANGELA BURNS-WALLACE, EdD,
is a transformative executive leader, former U.S. diplomat, and the author of
Made for This.
Her dynamic career spans global diplomacy, higher education, state government, and national philanthropy. Across every sector she’s served, she has led large-scale, values-driven change and is widely recognized for her ability to align strategy with mission for lasting impact.
She currently serves as president and CEO of the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, where she leads efforts to expand equitable economic mobility for all. Before entering philanthropy, she held cabinet-level appointments as secretary of administration and chief information technology officer for the State of Kansas—roles in which she modernized systems, shaped policy, and steered organizations through crisis and transformation.
A first-generation college graduate, Burns-Wallace began her career as a U.S. diplomat with postings in China and South Africa. She later held executive leadership roles at the University of Kansas and the University of Missouri, where she championed access, belonging, and student success.
Throughout her journey, she has remained a mentor, strategist, and passionate advocate for those ready to lead boldly and live intentionally. Made for This is her invitation to anyone who wants to lead a life of purpose—not perfection. It is a call to rise, reflect, and own the path you were born to walk. Burns-Wallace holds degrees from Stanford University (BA), Princeton University (MPA), and the University of Pennsylvania (EdD). She lives in Kansas with her son and retired parents and continues to speak and write on leadership, impact, and systems change.
CURRENT
ROLE
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President & CEO, Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation (since August 2023) — leading one of the largest private foundations in the U.S., focused on expanding access to economic opportunity, entrepreneurship, education, and upward mobility.
CREDENTIALS &
ACCOMPLISHMENTS
PUBLIC
SERVICE
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Former Secretary of Administration & Chief Information Technology Officer, State of Kansas — first person of color in the state’s history to hold either cabinet seat.
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Oversaw statewide modernization and administrative functions, combining technological leadership with public-sector governance.
HIGHER
ED
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Vice Provost for Undergraduate Education, University of Kansas
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Assistant Vice Provost (Undergraduate Studies / Enrollment Management), University of Missouri
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Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Admissions, Stanford University, (Collectively 15+ years of academic leadership)
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Associate Professor, Adjunct, Rossier School of Education, University of Southern California (since 2018)
DIPLOMAT
EXPERIENCE
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Former Foreign Service Officer with the U.S. Department of State — served on diplomatic postings in China, South Africa, and Washington, D.C., bringing a global perspective to education, policy, and equity-driven leadership.
REGIONAL
HONORS
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Kansas African American Museum Trailblazers Hall of Fame Inductee (2024)
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Civic Leader of the Year, Greater Missouri Leadership Challenge (2024)
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Kansas City CIO of the Year, Public Sector (2022)
AWARDS &
RECOGNITION
NATIONAL
HONORS
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Executive of the Year, StateScoop (2022)
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Champion of Change for College Opportunity, The White House (2018)
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Superior Honor Awards, U.S. Department of State (2004)
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Three Meritorious Honors Awards, U.S. Department of State (2003, 2000)
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Greater KC Chamber of Commerce Executive Committee
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The Economic Club of Kansas City
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Rhodes Scholarship, Distinct 12 Chair
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​VisitKC - Economic Development Organization
BOARD
SERVICE
NATIONAL
SERVICE
REGIONAL
SERVICE
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Stanford University
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National Association of State Chief Administrative Officers (NASCA)
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The College Board - SAT National Advisory Board
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Council on Foreign Relations
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Phi Beta Kappa
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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
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Jack and Jill of America, Inc.
