United Way of Rock River Valley announced that they have hired Dr. Octavia Williams as Director of Development. Williams will lead United Way’s efforts in creating deep, strategic, year-round, sustainable relationships with all United Way donors and supporters, and philanthropic individuals throughout the community.
“We are excited to have Octavia join our team and bring her years of experience and enthusiasm to United Way,” said Julie Bosma, President and CEO of United Way of Rock River Valley. “She has jumped right in and is already meeting with donors and understands what a vital role we play in the community. We are blessed to have her!”
Most recently, Williams was a Clinical Data Analyst at Enclara Pharmacia, the nation’s largest pharmacy benefits manager for hospice and palliative care, based in Memphis, Tennessee. While there, she was also their Outreach Coordinator, strengthening her passion and understanding of philanthropy. In that role, she facilitated close working relationships between Enclara and local non-profit organizations, developing and coordinating outreach programs with organizations like St. Jude, whose services support Enclara patients.
“I am honored to take on this new role as Director of Development,” said Williams. “The Rock River Valley is home to such wonderful, caring, and compassionate people. My goal is to build on the successes of United Way and to be a part of the solution to our community’s most challenging issues. Together, we can make a difference!”
Williams is a native of Maryland. She received her Doctorate in Pharmacy from Xavier University of Louisiana College of Pharmacy. She and her husband, Dr. Jonathon Williams, moved to Rockford in October. He is the Senior Pastor at Pilgrim Baptist Church in Rockford. Together, they are proud parents of daughter Nadja Williams, 10, who attends Christian Life.
Williams assumed her role as Director of Development for United Way in February.
Contact Octavia Williams at octavia@unitedwayrrv.org.