Meet Lee Williams III: A Champion for Education and Community Empowerment #spotlight
- The In My Sity Team
- May 1
- 3 min read
Meet Lee Williams III, an inspiring leader making a profound impact in higher education and beyond. Originally from Los Angeles, California, Lee’s journey is a testament to resilience, dedication, and a passion for creating opportunities for others.
A Brief Background
With 20 years of experience in higher education, Lee Williams III currently serves as the Executive Director of Student Success, Retention, and TRIO-EOC at Texarkana College. In this role, he spearheads initiatives aimed at supporting student success, increasing retention rates, and expanding access to post-secondary education. At a campus where nearly 70% of students identify as first-generation college attendees, Lee has implemented innovative strategies to boost student engagement, improve graduation rates, and secure vital funding for student support programs. His leadership has contributed to over 4,000 students enrolling in college and nearly $1.5 million in scholarship funds raised.
A Passion for Equity and Leadership
Beyond his work at Texarkana College, Lee is deeply committed to advancing equity in education. He serves as Co-Chair of the NASPA Mid-Level Administrators Conference (MLAC), where he influences conversations around leadership, diversity, and student success. He is also the President of the Northeast Texas Alliance of Black School Educators (NETABSE) and is the immediate past president of the National Educational Opportunity Association (NEOCA).
Lee’s academic background includes a bachelor’s degree in English Literature from Wilberforce University—the nation’s oldest private historically Black college—and a Master of Education in Leadership from the American College of Education. As a dynamic speaker and thought leader, he has shared his insights nationwide, inspiring students and professionals alike.
A Personal Journey of Resilience
Originally from Los Angeles, Lee’s path has been shaped by overcoming adversity. Having surmounted a childhood speech impediment, he now uses his voice to champion access, opportunity, and student success. Today, he resides in Texarkana, Texas, with his loyal dog, Simba, continuing his mission to uplift others through education and community service.
Beyond the Office
Outside of his professional endeavors, Lee finds joy in traveling with family and friends and spending quality time with loved ones. These moments of connection fuel his passion for making a difference.
Overcoming Challenges
Like many leaders, Lee has faced obstacles along the way. One of his biggest challenges has been helping others recognize that his extensive professional experience, gained over two decades, is valuable—even as a millennial. His perseverance and commitment to excellence have helped him navigate and overcome these hurdles.
Words of Wisdom
For those looking to make a positive impact but unsure where to start, Lee emphasizes the importance of local involvement. He recalls volunteering with his parents at a nursing home and witnessing the joy it brought to residents. His advice: “Make sure you are doing things that make you happy.” Small acts of service can create meaningful change.
What He Loves About Texarkana
When asked about his favorite thing about Texarkana, Lee highlights the community’s potential to motivate and inspire one another. “The opportunity to help motivate the community to strive for excellence is what I cherish most,” he shares.
Lee Williams III exemplifies what it means to be a dedicated educator and community leader. His journey, driven by resilience and a genuine desire to help others succeed, continues to inspire those around him. As he works tirelessly to create equitable opportunities and foster community pride, Lee reminds us all of the power of perseverance, leadership, and a committed heart.
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