10 Under 10: Distinguished Young Alumni
The Winners of 2023
Aalieyah M. Billings
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: General Dentistry
LT Aalieyah Billings, D.D.S., is a native of Chicago, Illinois. She attended the University of Missouri-Columbia, where she studied Biological Sciences and Chemistry. She earned her Doctorate of Dental Surgery from Meharry Medical College in 2022. While there she enrolled in the School of Public Health and earned two certificates in Public Health and Public Health policy.
After graduation, she was commissioned into the United States Navy Dental Corp. Following Officer Development School in Newport, RI, LT Billings reported to Branch Health Clinic NAVSTA Norfolk for Advanced Education in General Dentistry training. She has been assigned operationally to the USS Fort Lauderdale (LPD-28) as Dental Department Head.
Dr. Billings is a member of the American Dental Association, National Dental Association and the Region 17 webmaster for the Academy of General Dentistry.
Her military decorations and awards include: National Defense Surface Medal, AF Training, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, Air and Space Outstanding Unit Award, Air and Space Longevity Service Award, USAF NCO PME Graduate Ribbon and Global War on Terrorism.
She takes great pride in the care she provides. Her passion is driven by the bonds she has built with her patients and the enjoyment she holds in keeping them healthy and well. She is a leader and community advocate. Her service to others is unwavering as she continues to give back to youth organizations, free health clinics, and local outreach events. The combination of her clinical experiences and her drive for community outreach laid the groundwork for her aspiration to specialize in the field of Periodontics to help treat, diagnose, and prevent periodontal disease. She is determined to make her mark on the dental industry and the business world. Her career thus fair has warranted her the intangible reward of maintaining professionalism, tradition, and the institutional values of the military.
My source of motivation
Looking back over my upbringing, I realized that there were not many opportunities to serve under the tutelage of esteemed black professionals. Many of my closest friends and I continuously spoke of greatness and change but it always seemed intangible. As I sought to become the leader that I had never met, I looked to my three grandmothers as a major source of motivation. I was drawn to them because of how inspiring they were. Three women with no college education, a modest living, who have all persevered through adversity but enacted change in so many lives. I know that their influence in my life has helped shape me into who I am today. I am truly honored to be a recipient of this award and look forward to providing representation in my field, continuing to uphold the mission of Meharry Medical College and be an impactful leader in my community.
Sharica M. Brookins
Field: Medicine
Specialty: Nephrology
Sharica Brookins, M.D., FASN (SOM 2012) is a board-certified Nephrologist & Internist practicing in Augusta, Georgia. She is devoted to community service by educating and empowering others about kidney disease, prevention, nutrition, transplantation, and health disparities. Her purpose-driven path to Nephrology began as a senior in college while volunteering with Donate Life on the campus of Florida State University. After discovering the disproportionate rates of kidney transplantation and dialysis amongst African-Americans, she pursued a Doctorate of Medicine at Meharry Medical College to further achieve a career in Nephrology. She went on to complete her Internal Medicine residency training in her hometown at UF Health Jacksonville; and completed her Nephrology fellowship training at Vanderbilt University. In 2017, Dr. Brookins began practicing as the first Black Nephrologist in Augusta, Georgia & Waynesboro, Georgia.
She is the Founder & CEO of Remote Renal Care, a telehealth kidney practice and the first of its kind in Georgia to provide care to rural Georgia since 2018. In an effort to reduce the burden of wait time and travel time for her patients in Waynesboro, Georgia, Remote Renal Care allowed for this mission to spread statewide. Virtual kidney care created opportunities for Dr. Brookins to incorporate community involvement into her practice. In 2019, Dr. Sharica Brookins was recognized by her local news ABC WJBF Channel 6 as a Woman to Watch for tackling kidney disease in a new way. As the first practicing Black Nephrologist in Augusta, GA, she understands her role as a diverse representation in the local black communities. She began with providing Lunch & Learn sessions on kidney disease to a small audience of seniors at a local church in 2019, to now she facilitates free kidney screenings and educations sessions across the State of Georgia at churches, state church conferences, health departments, rural festivals, farmers’ markets and community health fairs.
Since the pandemic, she has expanded her virtual services to urban areas of Georgia. This has allowed her to partner with the VA (Atlanta, Augusta, Savannah) through the Community Care Network to provide care to veterans who would otherwise have months to wait for care, or have no nephrologist at their nearest VA. The pandemic has also increased the use of mobile health clinics in rural areas. Her goal is to partner with mobile clinics to provide virtual kidney care to rural areas that lack broadband, and increase home dialysis and transplantation in rural areas.
Dr. Brookins is a published author in medical scientific journals & digital media; a member of American Society of Nephrology; and featured on WebMD/Medscape and C-Span. Kidney disease is a well-known diet-related chronic condition that impacts mostly Blacks. Her recognition as a Nephrologist & Nutritionist that promotes Food as Medicine earned her the opportunity to serve as a panelist on C-Span with the USDA Secretary Tom Vilsack. She provided insight on how chronic illnesses like hypertension, diabetes and kidney disease can be addressed with more integration of food and nutrition education to both providers and patients. She served as the inaugural guest speaker on a regional level with The Links, Inc. Black Kidney Awareness, Resources, and Education (K.A.R.E.) project. This is a collaborative effort between Baxter & the Central Area of The Links, Inc. to bring awareness of kidney disease to the Black community.
She holds true to the philosophy “Each one, teach one” while serving as a mentor to minority pre-med students at Augusta University; and a Nephrology attending to medical students, residents and fellows at Medical College of Georgia. Since 2019, she has volunteered with Leaders and Adolescents Uniting to Navigate Careers in Healthcare (L.A.U.N.C.H.) Augusta Summer Camp. L.A.U.N.C.H. stands to increase diversity in healthcare by providing underrepresented, minority 1st-12th graders with education on various health careers. Dr. Sharica Brookins is a mother of 2 (Justice-5 & Josie-3); an active member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.; Board member of Family YMCA Camp Lakeside; Board member of Augusta Locally Grown; and Hypertension educator for Georgia Food for Health program that promotes food prescriptions in food insecure areas.
My source of motivation
In 2019, Dr. Sharica Brookins was invited to her first public speaking Lunch & Learn session about kidney sisease at Elim Baptist Church in Augusta, Georgia. It was early in her private care career that she had faith in her purpose to treat and educate the Black community. This meant being in the community, especially in the church. This Lunch & Learn session was attended by about 30 seniors and was sponsored by the Zeta Xi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority, Inc. This event solidified to Dr. Brookins the importance of loving her community meant being in the community.
Janelle L. McQueen Hamilton
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: Orthodontics
Growing up, I spent a lot of time at my mother’s office and fell in love with the field. When I was in fifth grade, I wrote a paper explaining how I wanted to be an orthodontist and a WNBA player! In high school, I started dental assisting, working on family and friends, under my mother’s guidance.
I attended Texas Southern University, in Houston, where I played D1 basketball and completed my undergraduate studies. Following in my mother’s path, I then attended Meharry Medical College, graduating with my Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS). I completed her orthodontic specialty training at Howard University, receiving my Certificate in Orthodontics.
As an orthodontist, I appreciate the opportunity to meet and spend time with people from diverse backgrounds. Building connections while improving smiles – and knowing treatment can transform a person’s life – is personally and professionally fulfilling!
I now work in the Metro Detroit area at three offices that my mother Dr. Jana Tumpkin McQueen opened throughout her career. I am truly blessed to work alongside my mother and I have to admit I have the world’s greatest boss. Perfecting smiles with my best friend is something that I will forever be grateful for.
My source of motivation
My family is my number one motivation. Throughout my entire life my family has given me the motivation and support to achieve every dream that I have had. Starting with my husband supporting my decision to attend dental school, at my dream school, miles away from our home. My father and grandfather flying into Nashville on multiple occasions to be my patients while in dental school. My mother reminding me that I can succeed just as she did by sending me encouraging words and motivation. And to my brother and friends answering the phone when I have to vent about the tough moments that I have faced throughout my schooling and now career. Having this support system by my side has propelled me into the position I am in today and has allowed me to successfully treat my patients to the best of my ability. I am forever grateful for their support and I am now in a position to be that person for someone else. Just like the “Meharry Way” intended me to do so.
Preston L. Harris Jr.
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: General Dentistry
Each day we strive for something different, and with that new day comes a new motivation. It isn’t the product that defines who we are, but the process it takes to help mold life’s principles of dreams and ambition. There comes a moment in a person’s life when they begin to understand that dream or ambition was not about the person, but about repaying those people who saw potential and made an investment in their life. Struggles, challenges, and hard times offer much more value than any other time in your life. It was my mother who once gave me sound advice: “Whatever you do or decide to do, never let anyone take it from you.”
My matriculation at Meharry School of Dentistry afforded me the opportunity to challenge the outdated paradigm of dental health, which views the oral cavity as a separate entity from the rest of the body. Meharry’s program unequivocally underscores the relationship between oral and general health as well as systemic diseases from oral manifestations. My participation with the Jamaican Awareness Association of California (JAAC) in Montego Bay, Jamaica, re-emphasized the scope of health disparities that exist abroad and realized access to quality dentistry is a global concern that requires international initiatives. After returning from Montego Bay, Jamaica, I knew that four years alone could not fully equip me with the tools necessary to promote better health outcomes.
Upon graduating from Meharry, due to my close-knit relationship with faculty and staff, I was recommended to attend the University of Tennessee, Health Science Center’s Advanced Education in General Dentistry (AEGD) at Matthew Walker Comprehensive Health Center (MWCHC). My experience at Matthew Walker provided exceptional mentorship in preparation into a private practice environment, exposure to medically compromised patients, exercise in specialty dentistry, specifically: Oral surgery, endodontics, prosthodontics, cosmetic and implant dentistry. Furthermore, the AEGD experience improved my skills in diagnostic screening, assessments, and treatment planning; and also reduced my time required to finish treatment procedures, while maintaining and encouraging a cohesive doctor-patient relationship. I truly obtained a wealth of knowledge in which I began considering the idea of cosmetic and implant dentistry as a focus for my future plans in private practice.
Soon after completing my AEGD program, I explored many opportunities in general dentistry beginning in private practice as an associate provider and later as the lead provider with a Dental Service Organization (DSO). I am very fortunate to have experienced working alongside many providers of diverse specialties and plan to continue my learning experience with continued education courses that are available. This journey has now led me as a Practice wonder with Affordable Dentures & Implants (ADI) in Oakridge, TN. As an owner with ADI, my plans are to inform the community about the benefits of implant dentistry and the advantages it provides to promote overall healthier outcomes. Nonetheless, I plan to make an effort to understand the challenges we, as human beings, all face on both ends of the spectrum and move forward from there. This is not just a call that I plan to answer, but also one that I will never end.
My source of motivation
Throughout my life, I have surmounted many adversities which have enhanced my character and growth as a young professional. Moreover, my faith in God and the support of my loving family, friends and mentors has carried me through it all.
This is a photo of my family. My wife is our caretaker and provides love and respect while guiding my goals to fulfillment. My daughter is my cheerleader; she reminds me to have a positive day and encourages me to be safe. And lastly, my son is my supporter; he is my accountability partner. He will not rest until we share our accomplishments of the day, along with the good and the bad. During my first year of dental school my son was born. Nevertheless, he was also my first patient. As a dental student, I managed two jobs to provide for my family before I entered my dental residency. It was certainly a challenging time in my life that served as a pure form of determination and motivation. As I reflect back on my life, I conclude with this verse from James 1:2-4 : “Consider it pure joy, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith develops perseverance.”
Joannie M. Ivory
Field: Medicine
Specialty: Internal Medicine
Joannie M. Ivory, M.D., MSPH is currently the chief fellow in the Division of Hematology and Oncology at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNCCH). She is originally from New Orleans, LA. Dr. Ivory earned both her Master of Science in Public Health and Doctor of Medicine from Meharry Medical College. She completed Internal Medicine training at Saint Louis University Hospital. After fellowship, she will be joining faculty as an Assistant Professor at UNCCH to specialize in the treatment of various types of breast cancer and conduct research. Her research interests include addressing disparities in breast cancer outcomes and increasing participation in clinical trials through community and patient engagement. Recently, she was awarded the 2022 ASCO Conquer Cancer Foundation Young Investigator Award for Diversity and Inclusion in Breast Cancer and UNC Lineberger Innovation Award to fund research investigating the relationship between race, age and molecular subtypes of breast cancer.
My source of motivation
My source of motivation is my late grandmother, Ada Ivory (picture attached). I witnessed my grandmother bravely battle Stage IV cancer when I was in undergrad at Xavier University of Louisiana. Despite a grim prognosis, she went on with her life and continued to support her family. She encouraged me to become a doctor, so that I would be able to help my family navigate the health system and provide guidance when needed. Sadly, my grandmother passed away months before I matriculated into medical school, but I proudly carry our last name through hospital halls, and I know she’s proud and at peace because the mission is accomplished.
Paul Johnson
Field: Medicine
Specialty: Surgery
Double Board-Certified by the American Board of Surgery and the American Board of Colon and Rectal Surgery, Dr. Paul Johnson is committed to the prevention and management of diseases of the colon and rectum. In addition to many teaching awards and multiple peer-reviewed publications related to his specialty, he has found a passion for the advancement of underrepresented minorities in medicine (URiM). Being the only Black person in many rooms in the medical space started out as a badge of honor; it quickly became quite lonely and his fight to increase diversity began. He is proud to serve on the American Society of Colon and Rectal Surgery’s (ASCRS) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee, which strives to improve equity in colorectal cancer screening and treatment. He is the lead of the ASCRS’ Student Pathway Program which is designed to expose underserved high school, college, and medical students to the colorectal surgical specialty during the ASCRS Annual Scientific Meeting each year. The goal is to spark future interest in the medical field and the colorectal surgical specialty. Believing in the power of grassroots mobilization to impact change, he is one of four delegates from the ASCRS to The House of Delegates (HOD), the legislative and policy-making body of the American Medical Association, and serves on ASCRS’ Health Economics Committee. Furthermore, Dr. Johnson seeks to contribute to support and educate the next generation of Meharrians by establishing a clerkship in Memphis in Surgery. Recently appointed as adjunct faculty of Meharry Medical College’s Department of Surgery, he has started educating students at Methodist University Hospital and will be a resource for all interested in surgery, as they navigate this challenging but rewarding path. Dr. Johnson is also a member of the Executive Leadership Team of National Council for Residents, an organization that exists solely to stem the tide of dismissal of Black residents—a devastating epidemic in Graduate Medical Education. Lastly, Dr. Johnson has founded a 501(c)(3) organization called Project BYPASS in the city of Memphis, TN which seeks to “bypass” the leaky segments in the pipeline from high school to the medical field through inspiration, exposure, and mentorship while avoiding the too-often traveled school-to-prison pipeline.
My source of motivation
My motivation comes from seeing young, impressionable faces of color excited to see a physician who looks like them and realize that they can do it too.
Brandon S. Morgan
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: Orthodontics
Dr. Brandon S. Morgan is the owner of Iconic Orthodontics in Atlanta, Georgia. He is dedicated to serving his hometown with the highest level of orthodontic care and continued involvement in philanthropic initiatives.
He received his undergraduate degree in Biology from Emory University and his Doctorate of Dental Surgery (DDS) from Meharry Medical College School of Dentistry. While at Meharry, he also earned a Certificate in Health Policy from the Robert Wood Johnson Center for Health Policy. After Meharry, Dr. Morgan completed his orthodontic residency at Howard University College of Dentistry in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Morgan returned to Atlanta to start a Medicaid orthodontic program for Beautiful Smiles Dental Centers. He has provided orthodontic care for over 2,000 patients within the Georgia Medicaid system and is one of very few practicing orthodontists credentialed with Georgia Medicaid.
Iconic Orthodontics opened Summer 2021 and has since become one of Atlanta’s premiere orthodontic practices. It was listed with “Best of Georgia” and is growing at a record pace. In addition to setting the standard for orthodontic care, Dr. Morgan routinely invests his resources into his community to invoke positive change and eradicate disparity. For example, to celebrate the establishment of Iconic Orthodontics, Dr. Morgan created an annual back to school festival for students throughout the city of Atlanta. Last year, Iconic Orthodontics was able to distribute over 100 backpacks and other resources to students. Iconic Orthodontics is a supporter and partner of many local organizations.
Dr. Morgan is a member of the American Dental Association, American Association of Orthodontists, and Southern Association of Orthodontists. He is also a member of Alpha Phi Alpha fraternity and the LEAD Atlanta leadership class of 2022. He serves on the GO-TEAM for Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School in Atlanta. In his spare time, he enjoys music, exercise, and spending time with family and friends.
My source of motivation
My parents have always been my greatest motivation. Like the proverbial apple that doesn’t fall far from the tree, I too have remained close to my roots. I am the son of Mr. Johnny Morgan, a retired army veteran and environmentalist, and Dr. Barbara Morgan, a retired college administrator and scientist. At a very early age they began influencing my life and trajectory by instilling values; providing diverse opportunities of exposure for my brother and me; and by investing their time, energy and resources into my interests and personal development. Their consistent push, presence and examples have always been sources of admiration, encouragement and direction.
I decided to pursue a career in dentistry while in the seventh grade. Undoubtedly, my parents’ backgrounds in science, education and civic engagement, coupled with my father’s interest in dentistry and time at Meharry School of Dentistry contributed to the development of one of my life’s passions, Orthodontics. The support of my parents is endless. Their examples are admirable and complete. They continue and will always motivate me to be a better me.
Zelexis C. Morse
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: General Dentistry
Dr. Zelexis C. Morse is currently practicing as a General Dentist in Northern Virginia at Neibauer Dental Care. She received her Master’s in Health Science in 2016 and Doctorate of Dental Surgery in 2020 from Meharry Medical College. She completed her General Practice Residency at Meharry and served as Chief Resident. Dr. Morse serves on the New Dentist Committee with the National Dental Association. She is also a member of the Academy of General Dentistry and the American Dental Association.
Continuing with the Meharry’s motto of ‘Worship of God Through Service to Mankind’, Dr. Morse is passionate about serving the underserved community. When she is not actively working in dentistry, she volunteers her time with UNCUT Youth providing groceries to families monthly, mentoring at the juvenile detention center, and tutoring at a local middle school. Dr. Morse understands that the journey to dentistry is unique and mentors young inspiring dentist.
As a native of Alexandria, VA, Dr. Morse is mindful of her humble beginnings; never forgetting to always extend a hand to those in need. She believes that dreams deferred are not failure. Everyone has a journey, but it’s not the same. But with commitment, dedication, and fortitude all dreams can become reality. The youngest of three siblings; daughter, sister, and auntie, she’s grateful for her family and village that made the investment for her to fulfill her dreams.
Mosa Ali Shubayr
Field: Dentistry
Specialty: Dental Public Health
I am Mosa Shubayr, a dentist with over ten years of experience in the field. I was born and raised in Jazan, Saudi Arabia, where I obtained my Bachelor’s degree in Dental Surgery from King Khalid University’s College of Dentistry in Abha, Saudi Arabia, with a minor in dental surgery.
In pursuit of my passion for public health, I furthered my education by obtaining a Master of Science (MSPH) degree in Public Health from Meharry Medical College’s School of Graduate Studies and Research. My research thesis focused on the knowledge, attitude, and practice of oral health promotion among oral health providers in Saudi Arabia.
Currently, I am a PhD candidate at the University of Western Australia in Perth, with a minor in dental public health. My dissertation focuses on dental health services in the Jazan region of Saudi Arabia.
Over the years, I have contributed to several courses and research projects at the Division of Community Dentistry at the College of Dentistry, Jazan University, where I am a full-time Teaching Assistant. I have also taken on various administrative assignments, including being the Head and founder of the Student Media Unit, Head of the Continuous Education Unit, Head of the Entrepreneur and Innovation Unit, developing and coordinating the community unit, serving as College Website Representative, and being a member of the students’ activities board, College of Dentistry, Jazan University.
I am registered as a dental public health professional with the Saudi Council for Health Specialties and hold the title of Fellow of the Royal Society for Public Health (FRSPH). Additionally, I am certified in Portfolio, Programme, and Project Offices (P3O) by AXELOS Global Best Practice, London, England, United Kingdom.
Throughout my career, I have received several awards and honors, including the Excellence Certificate from the Saudi Arabian Culture Mission to Australia, the Special Commendation Award from CISWA WA International Tertiary Student of the Year Award, and being a Finalist for the CISWA WA International Tertiary Student of the Year Award. I have also been selected to the Excellence Honorary Board by the Saudi Arabian Culture Mission to Australia.
Apart from my professional pursuits, I have volunteered for over ten years, implementing impactful activities in student communities across different countries, such as Saudi Arabia, the USA, and Australia. In 2022, I worked as a research Uni-Mentor, supporting new students at the University of Western Australia, and as an International Student Ambassador, organizing programs and activities for international students and assisting new students in adapting to studying at the university. I also served as the elected president of the Saudi Students’ Club and representative of the Saudi Arabian Culture Mission and the Royal Embassy in Perth. During my tenure, I arranged and organized over 60 programs and activities for the Australian and international communities with over 400 attendees. I also organized seminars and workshops (both physical and virtual) on different topics, with over 100 attendees, registered the Saudi Club as a non-profit organization in Australia, created audio, written, and visual content (including a podcast and website) guidelines, improved the club’s social media engagement, and provided information about schools and living in Perth to Saudis and international students.
I am also an avid learner and have attended several courses and conferences, including Micro-credential courses on Global Citizenship from the Common Purpose organization in partnership with UWA, and SPARK for University learning and teaching from the University of Western Australia. I have also been a part of a team to improve dental services in ON Prime 12, which is part of the ON accelerator powered by CSIRO in Australia.
In addition, I have authored several studies with faculty members from different universities and countries, which have been published in prestigious journals. I have also been a reviewer for BMC Springer Nature journals and an abstract reviewer for the Public Health Association of Australia Conference and the American Public Health Association 2022 Annual Meeting & Expo.
Overall, my passion for dentistry and public health has led me on a fulfilling career path, where I am constantly learning, growing, and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
My source of motivation
I have many sources of motivation, but my father remains my greatest motivator. He supported me from the very beginning, and even after his passing, he left me with the power to keep pushing forward. His selflessness, abundant love, tireless fighting spirit, and emphasis on the power of faith continue to guide me on my journey.
My accomplishments are a reflection of the unwavering support that my father, mother, wife, family, and many others invested in me. I am forever indebted to them for their belief in my potential and their contributions to my growth and development. Receiving the “10 under 10” award would be a tribute to their unwavering support and a personal achievement that would bring me great joy and fulfillment.
Stephen Williams
Field: Cancer Biology
Specialty: Breast Cancer
Dr. Williams is a native of Chesapeake, VA. He completed his undergraduate studies in Chemistry and Mathematics at Norfolk State University before matriculating into the Biochemistry and Cancer Biology Ph.D. program in the School of Graduate Studies. At Meharry, Dr. Williams trained under the awesome mentorship of Dr. Amos Sakwe where his dissertation is entitled “ The Role of Annexin A6 in the metabolic reprogramming of triple-negative breast cancer cells.” His novel research identified the role of the Ca2+ -dependent tumor suppressor annexin A6 (AnxA6) in the metabolic dependency and therapeutic resistance of the highly aggressive basal-like breast cancer subtype that more prevalently affects African American and Hispanic Women.
Dr. Williams’ research is published in several scientific peer-reviewed journals and has been featured at national and international scientific meetings. His compelling presentation and teaching style has afforded him with opportunities to give research lectures at several top universities including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Duke, and Emory. In 2022 he was selected into the 2022-2023 class of FDA-AACR Oncology Educational Fellows. In addition, Dr. Williams is completing a NIH Medical Genetics Postdoctoral Fellowship at Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, TX where he leads a NIH funded research project investigating the metabolic reprogramming and racial disparities in triple-negative breast cancer disease progression.
As a first-generation college graduate and inspiring biomedical scientist, Dr. Williams has served as a mentor for underrepresented minorities, particularly black males, in the sciences, technology, mathematics (STEM) fields over the last decade. His motto is to continue being trained as an impactful breast cancer scientist with effective communication that will allow black male scientist like himself, representation in these spaces. Continuing the work of promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the biomedical research spaces, he serves as a member on the Maximizing Access Committee (MAC) of the American Society for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Their mission is to increase cultural diversity in the fields of biochemistry and molecular biology by increasing participation, visibility, and status of underrepresented groups within the society. At Baylor, he serves as the Molecular and Cell Biology course instructor and mentor to students in the pre-graduate educational training program (PGET) seeking admission into graduate school.
While at Meharry, Dr. Williams served his institution in many leadership capacities. He was the Ph.D. representative in the Graduate Student Association; student member on the Academic Governance Committee; student member on the Campus Safety and Security Appeals board; the assistant and editor-in-chief of “The Meharrian” yearbook, and the President of the Chi Chapter of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. In his free time, Dr. Williams enjoys traveling, spending time with family and friends, and watching basketball and tennis.
My source of motivation
My motivation has been and will remain my faith in God, the support of my parents and sisters, the encouragement from friends, and the many mentors that have guided me through this journey. My passion to pursue oncology research was birthed out of the pain of losing my sister LaTricia to kidney cancer in 2017. It was during that catastrophic time where I pulled on the strength and belief in God. He promised to order my steps as long as I stay in his will for my life. Where I am, is only the beginning of what’s to come!
