Ethel Williams

Williams, now retired, was a Reynolds professor of public affairs and director of the School of Public Administration at UNO. She has more than three decades of experience in the field of public administration with particular expertise in the area of human resource management. Her research interests include social equity, health disparities as a policy issue, and workforce planning with an emphasis on succession planning. In addition to her teaching and research she has served, and continues to serve, on numerous professional and public boards and commissions. Throughout her career, Williams relentlessly focused on lifting others up, putting her deep faith into action, and mentoring young people. Serving on many boards and councils where she was a strong advocate for people in need, Williams has received many awards and recognition for her commitment to social equity and cultural competency. More importantly, she inspired all of her students to pursue their dreams while giving back to their communities. In April 2018, Williams was the recipient of the 2018 Lifetime Achievement Award at the ASPA-Nebraska Conference and Public Service Awards Luncheon.