The Clinton School of Public Service has recognized the distinguished career and lasting impact of Dr. Charlotte Lewellen Williams by conferring upon her the title of Professor Emeritus.
The honor, granted by the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees in November 2025, celebrates Williams’ nearly two decades of service as a scholar, educator, mentor, and leader in public health and public service education.
The Clinton School formally recognized Williams during its Graduate Awards Reception on May 1 and again at its 20th Commencement Ceremony on May 2, where she joined faculty, staff, graduates, and supporters in celebrating the Class of 2026.
“Dr. Williams has been a cornerstone of the Clinton School faculty for nearly 20 years,” said Dean Victoria DeFrancesco Soto. “Her work in bridging public health, research, and leadership has left an important mark on our school. We are thrilled to see her life’s work recognized with this well-deserved honor.”
A native of Jonesboro, Williams expressed gratitude for the recognition and reflected on the significance of the distinction.
“My first thoughts are immense gratitude to the University of Arkansas Board of Trustees, President Jay Silveria, and Dean Victoria DeFrancesco Soto for this incredible honor,” Williams said. “I am so humbled by this, and it’s a moment that I don’t take lightly. As wonderful as retirement has been for me, receiving the conferral of Professor Emeritus is so much more, because it is a highly recognized career distinction that speaks for itself.”
Before retiring in 2025, Williams served as Professor of Public Health and Founding Director of the Clinton School’s Center on Community Philanthropy. During her tenure, she helped transform the center into a multimillion-dollar initiative, securing more than $7 million in funding while advancing innovative approaches to philanthropy and community engagement.
Her leadership also resulted in the creation of the center’s Scholars in Residence program and fostered meaningful partnerships in communities including Helena, Pine Bluff, and Blytheville. Through those efforts, Williams helped connect academic research with real-world solutions that continue to benefit Arkansans across the state.
Williams earned her undergraduate degree from Howard University before receiving both a Master of Public Health and a Doctorate in Public Health from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences College of Public Health.
Throughout her career, she championed leadership development and mentorship, helping prepare hundreds of students for careers in public service. She also co-authored Passing the Torch: Planning for the Next Generation of Leaders in Public Service, the first book by a Clinton School faculty member to be published.
Her commitment to service extends beyond the classroom. Williams has served on numerous boards and advisory councils, including the Arkansas Cancer Coalition and the UAMS Hospital Patient Advisory Council.
In 2024, she was named a “Woman to Watch” by Soirée Magazine and has received several honors for her professional and community contributions, including the PEARLS Foundation's Global Impact Award.
Although retired from her full-time role, Williams continues to serve as an adjunct faculty member at UAMS, where she remains committed to advancing public health education and mentoring future leaders.