Kutztown University awarded Dr. Nathaniel J. Williams an honorary doctorate at the institution’s Spring Commencement Ceremony Friday, May 7.
Williams received a Doctor of Humane Letters, litterarum humaniorum doctor, honoris causa. The degree was presented by university president Dr. Kenneth S. Hawkinson during the Friday evening exercise for KU’s Class of 2020 at KU’s O’Pake Fieldhouse.
Williams is a noted author, lecturer, entrepreneur and an international motivational and keynote speaker. He is the president, chief executive officer and founder of HumanWorks Affiliates Inc., a cluster of eight organizations that provide direct social services and management support to social service agencies for the last 28 years. These corporations provide 50+ group homes, foster care/life sharing, supports for individuals living independently, leisure and recreation excursions and training and professional development opportunities.
Throughout his career, Williams has provided leadership in support of initiatives that benefit diverse community members. One of those organizations, ChildPromise, Inc., partnered with Kutztown University to present a one-of-a-kind support program for students who are current or former members of the foster care system. KU’s PROFS program, Providing Resources and Opportunities for Future Standouts, provides college access programs, graduate assistants that serve as mentors/success coaches, college prep and financial knowledge workshops for high school students and connects Kutztown University PROFS students to the campus resources that will help them succeed.
This joint effort between Kutztown University and ChildPromise, Inc. assists young adults who have been part of the foster care system and encourages students to reach their potential and be a positive example for others who have also gone through the system.
Williams’ passion to support those in need comes from personal experience. At the age of five, Williams, along with his 11 siblings, were left without his parents and entered into the New York City foster care system with nine of his brothers and sisters. This experience left a lasting mark on Williams, who has used his insights to benefit organizations, schools, colleges, the military and international audiences.
Williams has inspired audiences to reconnect with family members, pursue higher education, cease smoking and other activities to overcome challenges. Through his social media, motivational and keynote speaking engagements, Williams has diligently worked to meld his life experiences for the benefit of others.
Williams possesses five graduate degrees: a Master of Human Services from Lincoln University; a Master of Public Administration from Cheyney University; a Master of Business Administration, a Doctor in Education from Fielding Graduate University and a Doctor of Social Work from University of Southern California. He is an author of nine books, serves on diverse boards and committees and has taught both undergraduate and graduate courses. He believes that education affords people the opportunity to overcome life’s challenges.
Williams and his wife, Tade, are the proud parents of eight children.
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