It is with great excitement that Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity, a leading national organization supporting women and scientists of color in the STEM field, announces the appointment of Rochelle L. Williams, PhD as its new Executive Director. Dr. Williams brings a wealth of experience and expertise in STEM education and diversity advocacy to her new role, marking a significant milestone in the organization's commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in the STEM fields.
In her capacity as Executive Director, Dr. Williams will lead the organization's strategic initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and advancing opportunities for underrepresented groups in graduate STEM education. Her leadership will play a pivotal role in shaping the future direction of Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity (GFSD), ensuring its continued impact in empowering diverse talent across the STEM landscape.
Dr. Williams's extensive background in program management, strategic partnerships, and advocacy positions her as a visionary leader, scientist, and engineer poised to drive positive change within the organization and beyond. She holds a BS in Physics from Spelman College, a MEng in Mechanical Engineering plus a PhD in Science and Mathematics Education from Southern University and A&M College. This training in the sciences as well as her proven track record of success and dedication to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and access (DEIA) in her professional work makes her the ideal candidate to lead Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity into its next phase of growth and impact.
"We are thrilled to welcome Rochelle Williams as our new Executive Director," said former Executive Director and Board chair James Powell. "Her experience with advancing diversity in STEM, along with her strategic leadership skills and passion for mentorship, will be instrumental in advancing our mission and driving meaningful change within the STEM community.”
With Dr. Williams at the helm, the organization is poised to make significant strides in promoting diversity and empowering future generations of STEM leaders.
Dr. Rochelle Williams was chosen as the next Executive Director after an extensive search and recruitment process led by the GFSD’s search committee and facilitated by Envision Consulting. For more information about Dr. Williams's appointment or Graduate Fellowships for STEM Diversity, please contact Melissa Montoya, the Director of Search Services at Envision Consulting.