Xavier Gold Live Podcast
Xavier Gold Live Podcast, a production of Xavier's Office of Alumni Relations and Institutional Advancement, shines a spotlight on the journeys of alumni who are making a difference in their sphere of influence.
Each episode explores how Xavier has influenced their lives and careers, and how they give back to their Alma Mater and communities, embodying the mission of Xavier. It’s where Xavier's legacy comes to life.
Join us on the first Tuesday of each month as we explore stories of leadership, impact, and the Xavier spirit.
Xavier Gold Live Podcast
From Xavier to the World: Leadership That Transforms with Damon Williams ‘01
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On this episode of Xavier Gold Live, co-hosts Jamya Stewart and Amaya Sanford sit down with Damon L. Williams, Jr. ‘01, a nationally recognized facilitator, speaker, and innovator for change. With over 20 years of cross-sector leadership across higher education, corporate, and nonprofit spaces, Damon is known for bringing people together, turning big ideas into action, and driving meaningful, lasting impact.
Throughout his career, Damon has led transformative work focused on building inclusive talent pipelines, strengthening organizational culture, and advancing equity through research, partnerships, and practice. His leadership spans roles such as Associate Vice President and Chief of Staff for Community Relations at the University of Kentucky and inaugural Associate Dean at Northwestern University for Graduate Education, where he helped create pathways for belonging, economic opportunity, and community impact.
He has also led nationally recognized diversity and inclusion initiatives at Emory University, Northwestern University, and Xavier University of Louisiana, along with earlier experience across finance, pharmaceutical, and telecommunications industries.
A proud graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana, Damon holds a B.S. in Psychology, along with advanced degrees from Tulane University and Fontbonne University, and executive education credentials from Cornell, Northwestern, and Emory University. He is currently pursuing his doctorate in Leadership and Innovation at New York University and is also an alumnus of Harvard University’s Institute for Management and Leadership in Education.
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