Sonya Williams, Ph.D., joins CLC as vice president of education and chief academic officer
Sonya Williams, Ph.D., has joined the College of Lake County as vice president of education and chief academic officer.
Dr. Williams, who began Jan. 6, is responsible for long-term planning, budgeting and working with her team to provide leadership and guidance to the academic unit of the college.
"I'm thrilled to join CLC, which has changed the lives of thousands in Lake County and beyond," she said. "As the college begins a new decade and celebrates its 50th Anniversary, I look forward to working with stakeholders to continue the legacy. It's an exciting time to be a part of CLC."
CLC President Dr. Lori Suddick said, "We are very excited to have Dr. Williams join the college. She has a demonstrated experience in building a climate of student and faculty success at community colleges. Her expertise will serve CLC well as we implement the 2020-24 strategic plan and its pillars: Access & Success for Students; Equity & Inclusion; Teaching & Learning Excellence; Community & Workforce Partnerships; Collaborative Culture; and Strategic Use of Resources."
Dr. Williams comes to CLC from Joliet Junior College, where she was dean of the arts and sciences division and provided mentoring and long-term strategic planning while assisting faculty in instructional planning. She also developed the division budget, recommended improvements in curriculum, helped assess student learning outcomes, oversaw staff development and ensured efficient use of physical space.
Previously, Dr. Williams held leadership roles at Oklahoma City Community College, where she served as director and chair of the science department and later became dean of the chemistry and biological sciences division.
A native of Norman, Okla., Dr. Williams graduated from the University of Oklahoma, where she earned a B.S. in zoology and a Ph.D. in anatomical sciences and cell biology/neurosciences. Her postdoctoral training includes three years at the Yale School of Medicine, where she studied neurobiology, reproduction and immunology.
A captain in the U.S. Air Force, she served as section commander and information management officer for three squadrons. She also received service medals for Operation Desert Shield and Storm War campaigns.
About College of Lake County:
College of Lake County is an innovative community college in Lake County, Ill. that transforms lives with its variety of accessible, quality education options. Offered at three campuses in Grayslake, Vernon Hills and Waukegan or online, College of Lake County provides affordable options in a state-of-the-art setting close to home. A large student network, with small class sizes, provides advantages to our students on a career-related program or a path toward a transfer degree. We're proud to serve the diverse needs of our community and student body. Connect to your future today at College of Lake County. For more information, visit www.clcillinois.edu.