Theresa Williams

Associate Dean, Academic Support and Retention Services

Name: Theresa Williams
Department: Academic Affairs
Campus: Old Westbury and Manhattan

Why did you decide to join NYIT?
I wanted to be part of a place that wanted me as much as I wanted to be part of it. The job offer was very attractive, and the people I met during my interview and after were friendly, open, energetic, and visionary. In addition, they demonstrated that they like working at NYIT, which was a key determining factor for me in joining NYIT or any other organization.

What do you do at NYIT?
Everything! My role is to provide to ensure that students are receiving the best academic and support services possible from NYIT. When I was director of academic enrichment programs until the fall of 2006, I was responsible for all the academic support services and enrichment programs for undergraduate students at the Manhattan and Old Westbury campuses including EduPlus and the Higher Education Opportunity Program, the Central Advising Center, the Learning Center, the Honors Program and honor societies, placement testing, as well as academic dismissal and probation.

What’s unique about your role?
I have the opportunity and privilege to interact with all NYIT constituents—students, faculty and staff members, as well as administration. My day is rarely predictable. The most rewarding aspect for me is working with the students from the day of enrollment through graduation. I have the privilege to watch them grow and develop into amazing young people. Another unique aspect is that I work with students from two extremes—those with high academic achievements and those facing academic sanctions.

Why do you like working here?
NYIT is a vibrant and exciting place and is on a path of change; I am excited that I am a part of that journey and able to be a change agent. It is great to be at a place where you and your opinion matter.

What do you hope to achieve during your tenure at NYIT?
I want to continue to better the NYIT experience for students.

What has been your favorite experience here?
Commencement 2006! Both student speakers worked for me in the Learning Center, and I was so proud that they were selected as the speakers. I was especially connected with Melody Walker because she worked closely with me as my graduate assistant at the Manhattan Learning Center, and I was aware of the many personal challenges she had while attending. I was amazed by her positive attitude and determination. When she delivered that commencement speech, my heart was overfilled with pride and joy because of her eloquence, confidence, and poignant acknowledgement of those who supported her.

What is your favorite perk/benefit about working at NYIT?
Of course, I am very pleased with the pension and health plan, but on a personal level I have benefited greatly from working with my extremely talented colleagues, a supervisor who wholeheartedly supports my professional development, and a student body that is truly diverse in culture and thought.

What’s been the biggest surprise about working at NYIT?
That I would like it this much. During my career, I have worked at several other higher education institutions, and NYIT is the most diverse and forward thinking. It constantly challenges and inspires me.