The Education Foundation of Collier County – Champions For Learning is pleased to share exciting news about its future, as the Board unanimously selected Dr. Eric Williams as the organization’s next President and Chief Executive Officer following its search process. Dr. Williams brings both extensive leadership experience and a profound personal connection to the Collier County community. His proven leadership in education and development, combined with his heartfelt commitment to student and educator success in Collier County, makes him the ideal choice to lead Champions into its next chapter.
Dr. Williams and his family have strong roots in Collier County. He served in leadership positions within Collier County Public Schools from August 1997 to June 2008, serving as a school administrator at Lely High School and Barron Collier High School, principal of Gulf Coast High School, and assistant superintendent. His children attended Collier County Public Schools, and his wife taught at Golden Gate Middle School. Dr. Williams also participated actively in community affairs beyond the district, serving on the Board of Leadership Collier Foundation, chairing the Naples Youth Soccer Club Board of Directors, and coaching youth soccer through the YMCA, Optimist Club, and Naples Sharks.
After his time in Collier County, Dr. Williams served for 14 years as a superintendent, primarily in Virginia. During that time, he helped transform the work of education foundations, moving from event-based fundraising to major gifts campaigns. He played an active role in donor identification, donor cultivation, and gift stewardship, significantly increasing both resources and student impact.
“The Board of Directors is thrilled to welcome Dr. Williams to Champions For Learning,” said Martha Rozman, Board Chair. “His experience in leading education foundations alongside school districts, coupled with his commitment to improving outcomes for students and educators, reflect the organization’s mission to serve as a catalyst for educational success.”
“As a former CCPS school and district administrator, Dr. Williams brings a deep understanding of education and a true heart for Collier County,” observed Dr. Leslie Ricciardelli, superintendent of Collier County Public Schools. “He understands the power a strong partnership between a school district and its local education foundation can bring to the entire community. I am confident that Dr. Williams is the right leader at the right time! I look forward to partnering with him to continue making a difference for our students and schools.”
“I am honored to be selected,” commented Dr. Williams. “I look forward to collaborating with the Foundation’s Board of Directors, staff, volunteers, donors, as well as Collier County Public Schools and other community partners. Together, we can strengthen our impact on students and educators even more.”
Dr. Williams officially began his role on July 7. Under his leadership, Champions For Learning will strengthen partnerships to build on the organization’s strong foundation to serve as a catalyst for educational success for Collier’s students and educators.
Please see below to view a video message from Dr. Williams.