Dr. Williams is the Dean of the College of Education and Social Work at West Chester University of Pennsylvania, where she leads the strategic vision, academic programs, and faculty development of the college. She has more than 20 years of experience in higher education, with a focus on teacher education, social work education, counselor education, educational leadership, higher education administration, and diversity and inclusion. She holds a PhD and a MEd in Teaching and Learning from Georgia State University, and a BS in Mathematics from Morris Brown College.
Dr. Williams has increased enrollment, established strong partnerships, and secured grants totaling more than $15 million. She is a collaborative and data-driven leader who advocates for student choice, minoritized students, and continuous improvement. She has served on state and national committees and boards to impact the shortage of teachers, social workers, and school counselors. She is also a former professor and department chair of teacher education, with expertise in preparing teachers for diverse student populations. She is passionate about advancing the quality and impact of education and social work in the Commonwealth and beyond.
Desha is a 2022 graduate of the Education Policy Fellowship Program.