Board of Trustees Welcomes New Members

President Daniel K. Wims and Alabama A&M University officials hosted new Board of Trustees members Dr. Elizabeth Richardson and Ralph Williams Jr. this week for an official orientation. The newest trustees add a myriad of experiences and leadership that will further the mission of AAMU and foster growth and achievement on The Hill. 

“Dr. Richardson and Mr. Williams are outstanding additions to the Board who bring experience and knowledge to the role,” President Wims said. “They exemplify stewardship and bring a range of valuable insights to our University.” 

A native of Tuskegee, Alabama, Trustee Richardson is the Madison Market President for United Community Bank – formerly Progress Bank. Her academic achievements include studies at Tuskegee University, Webster University, Huntsville Bible College, and Alabama School of Banking in Mobile. She holds several degrees to include a Bachelor of Science in Marketing; Bachelor of Arts in Theology; a Master of Business Administration with a focus in Finance; a Master of Ministry in Pastoral Studies; and a Doctor of Ministry in Biblical Leadership. 

“I could not be more excited about the work that Alabama A&M University is doing under President Wims’ leadership,” she said. “There are so many things to be excited about – the upgrade of the campus, curriculum, the students we’re bringing into the University. It’s absolutely inspiring and amazing.” 

Trustee Williams is the Area Manager for the Birmingham Division of Alabama Power. A native of Birmingham, he has studied at both Alabama A&M and Miles College and holds a degree in political science. He is a former executive director of the Georgia State Employees Association and serves on the board of directors of Urban Impact, the Birmingham Urban League, the Railroad Park Foundation, the YMCA of Greater Birmingham, and the Woodlawn Foundation. 

“I’ve never been more proud of the University,” Williams said. “I see this as legacy work. My youngest daughter just graduated from an HBCU. So, me having an opportunity not only to serve on the Board, but to also be a part of continuing the legacy of service is sovereignty here is just (something) I can’t explain to you in words in terms of how excited I am about it.”

Richardson and Williams were appointed by Governor Kay Ivey in May of this year and were sworn into their roles in June.  

“They both bring perspectives to the Board that can be harnessed for the continued growth of the University,” said Board President Pro Tempore Dr. Roderick Watts. “Dr. Richardson’s expertise and relationships will be important for us in how we engage with this community. Mr. Williams is also a highly-respected leader in industry in the Birmingham market.”  
 
Richardson and Williams say they plan to be active in advancing the University and continuing the momentum being experienced at AAMU. 

“I’m very action-driven and oriented,” Richardson said. “So, if there is an assignment or project, any kind of strategic planning that needs to be done, I’m going to be at the forefront of encouraging and helping to move that agenda forward.”

“We have a best in class President, and he’s assembled a team that’s best in class,” said Williams. “So, that’s the standard. Being a good board member and continuing the work that Dr. Wims has started with this administration is what I’m focused on – continuing that best in class mantra.”