Williams, who retired three weeks ago after 35 years as a teacher and administrator with the Wichita Public School District, will fill the final two years of a four-year term. She was one of five candidates seeking to fill the seat a week ago when the Council could not break a 3-3 deadlock between Williams and community activist Treatha Brown-Foster. Regarding Tuesday’s unanimous vote, Council members praised both candidates but cited a desire to move forward.

A graduate of Wichita Heights High School, Williams has a bachelor’s of science degree in education from Emporia State University. Her duties with the Wichita school district included serving as a physical education teacher and a middle-school director of after-school programs. Her civic involvement includes serving in Citizens Academy and being a member of the District I Advisory Board and Wichita Independent Neighborhoods.

Williams said her interest in local government stems from a zoning case she and her neighbors opposed. They waited too long to get involved and secure the outcome they desired. It was a lesson learned.

“That really spurred my interest,” Williams recalled. “As the council member who represents District I, I want to encourage people to be empowered and to get involved before something is wrong. It’s important to be involved and proactive in your community. It will pay off in the long run.”

Williams and her husband, Billy, have two adult sons, BJ and Darrin; and four grandchildren. BJ and Darrin were basketball standouts at Wichita South High School. BJ later played basketball at the University of Kansas; Darrin, at Wichita State University. BJ is employed at Spirit AeroSystems and Darrin is a Wichita police officer.

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