Edith Williams has a philosophy that has stuck with her throughout her career as a medical professional. “I can show you something better than I can tell you.”
She said this approach has allowed her to succeed in a variety of leadership positions and prepared her for her new role as director of the Center for Community Health and Prevention at the University of Rochester Medical Center. She is the first black woman to lead the center.
“I know there are people who think I was appointed to this role because I am a Black woman,” Williams said. “What I can do to those naysayers is show them what I've accomplished so far and show them everything I'm going to do with this center. That says more than the color of my skin. I think.”
As a Black woman, Williams said she understands there are some disadvantages against her, but she is ready to show and prove that she is indeed the right choice for this position. According to the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, less than 8% of executive positions are held by black women.
Williams said being a woman of color in her new role will give her an advantage in furthering the agency's mission. It focuses on disease prevention and healthy living programs, and also conducts public health research and policy work.
“It gives them a level of credibility that they wouldn't have otherwise,” she said. “This allows for a comfortable relationship between the community and the university that may have been difficult under other leaderships.”
Dr. Nancy Bennett founded CCHP in 2006 as a hub dedicated to making Rochester healthier through a variety of programs and initiatives. Bennett, known as 'Nana', announced his retirement at the end of 2023, with Williams taking over as chief executive in the new year.
Mr. Williams came to URMC in 2022 as founding director of health equity research and was recommended for the position by Mr. Bennett.
Many of the center's programs serve the needs of underrepresented communities and racial groups.
Celia McIntosh, president of the Rochester Black Nurses Association, understands the value of being comfortable within her target demographic.
“A lot of times, as Black women, we come into the community and are already active,” she said. “If you've lived in this community or any other community, you have your own lived experience. So you're bringing that to the table, too.”
Mr McIntosh said Mr Williams will need the necessary support and resources to be successful in his new role.
“It's great to have Black leaders at the table, but they can't be at the table without being supported,” McIntosh said. She said support must include the resources and budget they need to “stay ahead”.
Williams praises URMC for being supportive of the center's goals.
She said she plans to use the center's funding and resources to work with other organizations and people in the community to strengthen established programs and further develop new initiatives such as community meetings. Ta. — Tackles aimed at establishing and promoting relations with the general public.
“Just talking to people is enough. Before we start working, you have to become part of their world and allow them to become part of yours,” Williams said. he said.
