Dr. Kamilah Williams
How did you decide to go into the education field?
As a child, I thought I would be an attorney. Once college came, I found joy as a college student who had been marginalized, assisting other marginalized college students with equitable treatment on campus. At 21, I was offered a position, and 23 years later, I continue the same equitable fight for all students, particularly marginalized students.
How has school funding made a difference in your classroom?
School funding has impacted K-12 and higher education students in good and bad ways. Good ways it allows for greater educational opportunities. In a bad way, funding can be dispersed inequitably, impacting negatively the more disadvantaged districts and institutions of higher learning. I've been on the receiving end of both and so have the students I serve.
What resources and supports can further benefit your classroom/school/community?
Equitable funding, policies, diverse educators, and equitable and diverse programming on college campuses and K-12 districts that consider every student holistically are essential.
Who/What inspires you? Why?
My late parents instilled in me the value of loving YAH first, education, and that no matter what, I do my best to be a person of integrity and ethics and see the beauty in everyone. Because of their endless fighting, faith and belief in a better society, I wake up every day with my spiritual armor on, fighting for those who want their voices heard.
What accomplishment fills you with pride so far this year?
Being accepted to present at the National Conference on Race & Ethnicity in Higher Education (NCORE) in Hawaii this summer, the incredible advocacy work I do through Advance Illinois, and that my family and friends are healthy and blessed :-).
If you could pass on any wisdom to your students, what would you share?
Always Stand in Your Truth, And Fight to Have Your Voice Heard. If You Don't Have a Seat at the Table...Build Your Own Table ;-)
What is your favorite movie/book?
Bebe Moore Campbell Singing in the “Comeback Choir/ Glory” with Denzel Washington. Yes, please!!