LifeChanger of the Year Nominee Profile

Justin Williams was nominated by one of his colleagues.

After graduating from the Gainesville City School System, Mr. Williams went on to work for New Holland Knowledge Academy, where he has been for the past 16 years. He's not only devoted to his community, but the students Gainesville serves.

Mr. Williams spends the majority of his work day (from 7:00 am- 6:00 pm) working with students. This include small groups, behavior issues, lunch duty, serving as a bus monitor in the afternoons, and much more.

After working with students (both SPED and non-SPED) until 3:15, Mr. Williams works after school at the St. Paul Afterschool program. There, he works with a wide variety of students, not only from his school, but from the surrounding elementary schools. Mr. Williams also works with his school's Boys and Girls Club program. 

If that was not enough, Mr. Williams also devotes his summers to mentoring and tutoring students in grades K-5 at St. Paul’s Summer Enrichment program. He ensures that students participate in activities such as the Hall County Summer Reading Program, various academic enrichment opportunities, and other opportunities that many students would miss out on otherwise. 

Mr. Williams serves as a big brother or father figure to his students and even some parents. He provides emotional support to many people, especially to young African American men who often miss a male role model. You'll often hear friends of his nephews refer to him as “Uncle Justin”. 

"I have witnessed Mr. Williams pay out of pocket for ice creams, lost books, and even field trips," said the colleague. "All our students have to do is ask, and Mr. Williams will be right there for them. He knows almost all of our students' names and makes sure to attend the high school graduations of his former students. That is just the kind of person he is."

Outside of what he does for students, Mr. Williams serves as a constant place of support for teachers. Anytime a member of New Holland needs something, Mr. Williams is often one call away. He is never without a morning greeting or a smile on his face. 

Mr. Williams has serve(d) as a member of the governance council, the media committee, and the event planning committee for his school. He has also served as lead mentor for his school's Big Brother student program.

"I will end this to say that Mr. Williams never looks for a word of thanks. Because of this, he is beyond deserving of this honor," said his colleague.