Williams is currently working towards her Associate of Applied Science in Child Development and Early Education at MHCC and expects to graduate June 2018. Upon graduating, she plans to enroll in the Child, Youth, and Family Studies program at Portland State University.

“I love giving back to the community and seeing progress made to better the lives of others,” said Williams. “I believe that is one of the reasons I have found myself passionate about working with children.”

“My career goals also include being the best mother I can be and teaching my kids and guiding them to become leaders of their generation,” she added.

During her time at MHCC, Williams has led Rho Theta, the college’s honor society, in working with President Dr. Debra Derr on several initiatives. These include identifying gender inclusive/family friendly bathrooms and organizing an emergency preparedness awareness campaign aimed at informing community members and MHCC students and staff about disaster preparedness.

The Newman Civic Fellowship, named for Campus Compact co-founder Frank Newman, is a one-year experience emphasizing personal, professional, and civic growth. Through the fellowship, Campus Compact provides a variety of learning and networking opportunities, including a national conference of Newman Civic Fellows in partnership with the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate. The fellowship also offers fellows with access to apply for exclusive scholarship and post-graduate opportunities.

“We are thrilled to have the opportunity to celebrate and engage with such an extraordinary group of students,” said Campus Compact President Andrew Seligsohn. “The stories of this year's 268 Newman Civic Fellows make clear that they are bringing people together in their communities to solve pressing problems.”

The Newman Civic Fellowship is supported by the KPMG Foundation and Newman’s Own Foundation. Boston-based nonprofit Campus Compact works to advance the public purposes of higher education.