The David T. Kearns Center for Leadership and Student Success is pleased to announce that Antonio Williams has accepted the permanent position of director of the David T. Kearns Center effective July 1, 2026.
With nearly two decades of experience working in higher education, Williams brings a wealth of expertise and understanding of the academic landscape to this role. Since stepping in as interim director in April of 2025, he has been instrumental in the continued success of the Kearns Center and has demonstrated exceptional leadership and stability, guiding the Center with a steadfast commitment to excellence. His dedication to the Center’s mission and the students it serves makes him the ideal person to lead the Kearns Center into the future.
Before being named interim director, Williams worked in the Kearns Center as director for graduate diversity, leading initiatives that support the recruitment, retention, and success of historically underrepresented students, particularly in STEM disciplines. Prior to working at the University of Rochester, Williams worked for four years as the assistant director of the Higher Education Opportunity (HEOP) program at Rochester Institute of Technology.
“I’m excited to continue the great work at the Kearns Center with this amazing team,” William said. “Over the past year I have gotten to work more closely with them, and learn how they work best, and they have knocked it out of the park. I’m so grateful and look forward to building on the Kearns Center’s legacy and supporting all students that enter the University of Rochester.”
As a first-generation college graduate, he holds a BA in Sociology from Alfred University, an MS in Sports Management from American Public University, and an EdD in Educational Leadership from the American College of Education. His doctoral research focused on the retention and persistence of Black male students at predominantly white institutions.