The Muskegon Young Black Professionals group has highlighted Ferris State University Office of Admissions recruiter Aniesa Williams with its Emerging Professional Award at the third annual Shades of Excellence Professionals of Color Ceremony.  

“There was another Ferris alumnus considered for this honor. So, I am proud to receive this recognition,” Williams said. “My parents were about seeing that I was afforded opportunities, which included being the only Muskegon Heights Public School Academy graduate arriving at Ferris in 2017. Part of my work for the university means seven students from that charter school in Big Rapids at various stages of their higher education journey.” 

Williams advocates for underserved student populations and said she spends as much time in the Muskegon area as she does in and around Ferris State and Big Rapids. 

“I try to help these students explore college opportunities,” Williams said. “I hope they can relate to my story, which involved earning an Associate of Applied Science degree in Social Work in 2021 here and my Bachelor of Science diploma the year after. I am now in Ferris’ Master of Social Work program and intend always to be ready to offer my support to anyone in need.” 

Williams volunteers inside and outside higher education advocacy. She has a drive to contribute to the greater Muskegon County community. 

“There are initiatives like the Inclusive Leadership Academy and ‘Apps to Caps,’ where students who may be first-generation participants in higher education receive guidance to connect with avenues of assistance they may require,” she said. “I am currently on the board of the Coalition for Community Development and continue my support of Every Woman’s Place, where victims and survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault and sex trafficking are provided services.” 

Williams said she looks forward to many years of learning and growing as a professional and social advocate. 

“I participate in National Association of Black Social Workers conferences and activities,” she said. “Investing my time and effort is a way I can pay back my parents for their efforts to help me succeed and give back to my hometown and its people.”