The College of Social Work at the University of Tennessee Knoxville is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Javonda Williams as the next Associate Dean for Academic Affairs.

Dr. Williams is an accomplished leader in social work, having started her first academic position as a department chair at Miles College in Birmingham, Alabama, in 2006, and since that time, assuming leadership roles at the University of Alabama as Director of the Bachelor of Social Work program, interim Director of the Master of Social Work Program, and Assistant/Associate Dean for Educational Programs and Student Services.

Dr. Williams also brings a strong portfolio of scholarship in child well-being, with numerous refereed publications and federal research funding. Her research is built upon her years of practice experience as a licensed clinical social worker with children and families.

“We are thrilled to have Dr. Javonda Williams joining our team,” noted Dean Lori Messinger. “We are in the process of developing our strategic plan, and Dr. Williams is the perfect person to help us move forward. Her scholarly, clinical, and administrative experience will allow her to support our students, strengthen our academic programs, and help us achieve our mission to prepare social work practitioners as leaders and educators.”

Dr. Williams expressed her excitement about joining the College of Social Work, saying, “I am thrilled to be joining such an accomplished College of Social Work. I believe my previous experience and commitment to social work education are a great fit for the college, and I am looking forward to making meaningful contributions to this vibrant community of social work faculty, staff, and students.”

Dr. Williams will join the faculty on July 1, 2021, filling the position currently held by Dr. Sherry Cummings, who will retire this summer.