On the heels of controversy surrounding affirmative action at UW-Madison, the Office of the Vice Provost for Diversity and Climate welcomed Eric G. Williams to its team this week.
Williams, who will work to implement diversity strategies on campus, said although it has been a chaotic week, it has given him insight into how much students from diverse backgrounds at UW-Madison value their time at the university.
""It's great that students are getting involved and taking ownership of their education,"" Williams said. ""I feel this is an exciting time to be here.""
Under the title of Assistant Vice Provost for Student Diversity and Academic Excellence, Williams said one of his primary goals is to make minority students feel welcome at UW-Madison.
""We feel that if students are connected to the university, their success is greatly enhanced,"" Williams said.
He said he plans to form these connections through programs such as the Pre-College Enrichment Opportunity Program for Learning Excellence (PEOPLE) and Posse, which are university organizations dedicated to helping students from diverse backgrounds transition to college.
If students feel a connection to the university, Williams said, they will be more likely to come back as alumni to share opportunities and finances for future student.
Before coming to UW-Madison, Williams was the director of the Multicultural Academic Opportunities Program at Virginia Tech University, where he administered a program to help support diverse students academically, socially and financially.
Vice Provost for Diversity and Climate Damon Williams said Eric Williams brings experience UW-Madison will benefit from.
""Having someone of his experience and caliber will add immeasurably to our collective ability to enhance graduation rates, improve campus climate, and provide a supportive voice in our efforts to engage issues of diversity and educate iconic Badgers,"" Damon Williams said in a statement to the university.
Eric Williams received his master's degree in higher education and college student personnel from Kent State University and his doctoral degree from Virginia Tech University in educational leadership and policy studies.
