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³ÉÈËBÕ¾ celebrates graduating students who have overcome obstacles, made significant achievements or are fulfilling ³ÉÈËBվ’s mission in or outside the classroom.

Today, we celebrate Lamont Williams ’25.

³ÉÈËBÕ¾: Have you had any significant internships/co-ops/careers while at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾?

LW: I have not had any significant co-ops or employment with ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ mainly because I was still working while attending. I have been in the automobile industry for 34 years. I started out as a freshman at Bowling Green State University in 1983, and a few semesters at Monroe Community College in Rochester, N.Y. I am a proud graduate of John Adams High School in Cleveland. My wife is also a graduate of John Adams, Bowling Green State University, and a master’s degree from Syracuse University. My daughter Chelsea is a graduate from the University of Cincinnati and is an administrator for Kipp Jacksonville in Jacksonville, Florida. I have three grandkids, 8, 6 and 2 respectively, and I used them as motivation every day.

³ÉÈËBÕ¾: How would you describe the connections you have made with the faculty and staff at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾?

LW: I connected with ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ immediately. After making the decision to return to college, I contacted a few local colleges, and ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ responded quickly with the information I needed. The staff at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ guided me through the acceptance process, which included transcripts from two colleges and high school information. I met Dr. Mary C. Myers, the undergraduate academic coach for the Levin School of Public Affairs. She has been instrumental in assisting me in registering for the right courses, finding scholarships, and connecting me with key stakeholders at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾. She has been a coach and champion of my success. I could not have made this journey without her.

³ÉÈËBÕ¾: How has Cleveland State inspired you for your future?

LW: First, I would like to say I never thought I would get my degree. I am 61 years old, and I told myself for years I was too old. After taking that first class during the height of COVID (spring 2020) and the commitment I felt from that first professor, I knew at that time this was the right place for me. The commitment I felt from each instructor was a true source of inspiration. Seeing some of the challenges that ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ faces inspire me to represent ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ in a matter that honors the university. The students and faculty make up a great learning community that I will forever be grateful for.

³ÉÈËBÕ¾: How do you think you have fulfilled the ³ÉÈËBվ’s mission?  

LW: I was born and raised in Cleveland and carry that Cleveland pride wherever I go. I believe the education I received here at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ I can leverage with future-ready skills. I have met many alumni and stakeholders, and they all value their experience at ³ÉÈËBÕ¾.

³ÉÈËBÕ¾: Do you have a career lined up, and how has ³ÉÈËBÕ¾ been instrumental in that process?

LW: I have been in one business for years, and my hope is that attaining my degree along with my breadth of experience will open other opportunities. My degree is in organizational leadership/management, and it marries well to the positions I have held in dealerships. Healthcare management, or the healthcare industry, is of interest to me.

Congratulations, Lamont!