A mentor can really transform your outlook on your future career, which is the case for University of North Georgia (UNG) alumnus Jeremy Williams. The superintendent of the Gainesville City School System in Gainesville, Georgia, never pictured he'd be in this role and he credits Dr. Bob Michael, former dean of UNG's College of Education, for his career path.
After graduating from UNG in 2003 with a degree in physics education and minoring in mathematics, Williams began his teaching career at Collins Hill High School in Gwinnett County, Georgia, teaching Advanced Placement physics. Fourteen years later, Williams landed his current position, and is serving as the board chair for Pioneer RESA, a regional education service agency.
The role brought him back to the UNG community and gave him a better relationship with one of his biggest inspirations.
"Dr. Bob Michael worked with me to get my degree," Williams said. "He designed a pathway for me and when I moved into education and came back to the area, he was a mentor. I got to see him monthly at superintendent meetings and continue the relationship."
His time at UNG left an impression as he grew accustomed to the community feel of Dahlonega. Williams believes there is great importance in being not only approachable but personable. He said that is exactly what UNG teaches and provides.
As an educator, Williams said he wants to do what's best for students. He uses the skills he learned from UNG, like collaborating with peers and getting feedback to ensure Gainesville students have the best experience.
Williams' belief in serving students doesn't stop at the end of the day, but extends to his involvement within the community. While balancing his career and being a dad of two, he serves on the board for his local Boys & Girls Club, is a member of the Rotary Club of Gainesville and is a Greater Hall Chamber of Commerce member.
In continuing his education, Williams received both master's and doctorate degrees from Piedmont University. He remains thankful for the time he spent at UNG. His favorite class was Mechanics I with Dr. Mark Spraker, who Williams says taught him how to be a teacher.
"My physics and education classes were at the same time. Dr. Spraker allowed me to put a camera in the back of his class so that I could attend my education class and it showed me what it means to be personable and work with your students," the Mount Airy, Georgia, native said.
At 42, Williams was the youngest superintendent in the state of Georgia when he was hired in 2017. He credits his fast career trajectory to the preparation he received at UNG.
His biggest advice for his success is to keep an open mind.
"Be open to the possibilities," Williams said. "We have an idea of what we what to be and what we want to become, but opportunities will present themselves. You have to be open to them because in most cases they're going to be better than you could imagine for yourself."
