Her Story
About Camilya
Camilya Williams is a dedicated student affairs practitioner, healthcare advocate, facilitator, and empowerment speaker whose career has been defined by a deep commitment to serving others. With more than two decades of experience spanning higher education, healthcare, training, and community engagement, she has built a reputation for fostering inclusive, supportive environments where individuals can overcome challenges and reach their full potential. As Care Manager at Cleveland State University, Camilya provides holistic support to students by addressing academic, personal, wellness, and basic needs while championing student success, retention, and belonging.
Throughout her career, Camilya has demonstrated exceptional leadership in academic advising, crisis intervention, conflict resolution, employee training, and community outreach. Her multidisciplinary background includes extensive experience in healthcare, where she served in nursing leadership and staff development roles before transitioning into higher education. She is also an accomplished facilitator and motivational speaker who inspires audiences through her message of resilience, faith, service, and empowerment. Currently pursuing a Doctor of Education in Organizational Leadership at Franklin University, she continues to expand her expertise while contributing to initiatives that promote equity, wellness, and educational access.
Beyond her professional responsibilities, Camilya is a passionate community leader who believes that service is a lifelong calling. She actively supports organizations dedicated to education, women's empowerment, and community development, and her commitment has earned her numerous honors, including the 2026 Cuyahoga Community College Rising Star Alumni Award, the CARE Champion Award, and recognition among Cleveland's women leaders. Guided by compassion, integrity, and unwavering faith, Camilya remains devoted to creating meaningful opportunities for students and underserved communities, leaving a lasting impact through advocacy, mentorship, and servant leadership.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Camilya
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to faith, perseverance, and a genuine heart for service. Growing up on Detroit's east side, I experienced firsthand the impact of having people who believed in me and encouraged me to pursue opportunities. Those experiences inspired my passion for helping students discover their purpose and realize their potential. I believe that leading with compassion, being present during difficult moments, and never giving up on people can truly change lives.
02What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I've ever received came from my mother, who taught me that serving others creates purpose, even during life's most difficult seasons. That lesson has stayed with me throughout my career and continues to shape how I lead and support others. I strive to be the person who believes in my students when they need it most, offering the same encouragement and support that others once gave me.
03What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
My advice to young women is to be patient, keep learning, and never stop believing in your dreams. Success takes persistence, humility, and continuous growth. Most importantly, believe in yourself, especially during difficult times.
04What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the biggest challenges in my field is supporting students who face issues beyond academics, such as mental health, financial hardship, housing insecurity, and food insecurity. At the same time, these challenges create opportunities to make a meaningful impact through compassionate support, early intervention, and strong relationships.
05What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values that matter most to me are compassion, service, empathy, integrity, resilience, and hope. I believe everyone deserves someone who believes in them, especially during difficult times. I strive to meet people where they are while encouraging them to pursue their goals with confidence and determination.
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