Lee Ann Rawlins Williams
Lee Ann Rawlins Williams is a seasoned professional in the fields of disability, rehabilitation, and education, bringing more than 25 years of combined experience across practice, research, and academia. She currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor and Program Director at the University of North Dakota, where she focuses on advancing inclusive systems, educator support, and accessibility. Her work is grounded in a collaborative, global perspective, partnering across disciplines to promote equity, innovation, and meaningful change for individuals with disabilities and the professionals who serve them.
Williams began her career as a counselor with the state of Tennessee, working closely with individuals with both physical and mental health disabilities, including those with traumatic brain injury, blindness, and low vision. After earning her doctorate from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, she transitioned into academia to support and mentor future professionals in rehabilitation and human services. Throughout her career, she has contributed to training initiatives and grant-funded programs across the United States and internationally, while also serving in consulting roles such as her recent work with the United Nations Library & Archives Geneva, where she advanced accessibility in global information resources.
Her current work centers on bridging the gap between mental health and education systems, with a particular emphasis on educator well-being and retention in the post-pandemic era. Williams is deeply committed to trauma-informed practices, disaster preparedness, and strengthening both educational and workforce systems through inclusive, human-centered approaches. A recognized thought leader, she has contributed to national conversations on teacher shortages and professional sustainability, including widely read publications with The Conversation. Through her teaching, research, and global engagement, she continues to advocate for systems that prioritize dignity, access, and long-term impact for diverse and vulnerable populations.
• Human Services - Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCPT)
• Certified Family Life Educator
• Certified Rehabilitation Counselor
• University of Tennessee, Knoxville - PhD
• 2025 UND CEHD Excellent in Research and Scholarship Award
• 2024 UND Nomination for Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award
• Judge: Sigma Xi 2025 International Forum on Research Excellece (IFoRE) Research Competition (Invitation)
• Invited Attendee: UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, 8th Session Global Platform for Disaster Risk Reduction, Geneva, Switzerland (June 2025)
• Secretariat Appointment: 2025 Scientific Committee-International Conference on Education and New Developments (END)
• Sigma Xi-The Scientific Research Honor Society (Elected Associate Member)
• Phi Gamma Mu International Honor Society in Social Sciences
• Alpha Delta Omega National Honor Society for Human Service Education
• American Psychological Association (APA)v
• National Rehabilitation Counseling Association (NRCA)
What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to an unwavering commitment to my values, a dedication to giving back, and extensive hands-on experience working with individuals with disabilities, supporting students, and training educators to effectively promote mental health and well-being.
What’s the best career advice you’ve ever received?
The best career advice I’ve received is to stay true to who I am as a person and to my values. A mentor shared this with me early in my career, and it has guided me ever since. I’ve learned that authenticity and a strong commitment to giving back are central to my purpose, and when I stay grounded in those values, my work is most impactful, and when I don’t, it no longer aligns with who I am.
What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
I would encourage young women entering this field to remain grounded in who they are and guided by their values. It’s easy to feel pressure to meet external expectations, but maintaining a strong sense of self is key to long-term fulfillment and impact. I also believe it’s important to stay committed to your purpose, especially in a field like education where passion and dedication are essential. At the same time, make space for self-care and take care of yourself throughout the process. This work is meaningful, but it can also be demanding, and sustaining your well-being is critical to sustaining your impact. Despite the challenges, there is meaningful opportunity to make a difference, so remain focused, resilient, and driven by what inspires you, and always remember why you chose your profession.
What are the biggest challenges or opportunities in your field right now?
One of the most pressing challenges in my field is the growing teacher shortage. We are losing experienced educators and facing increasing difficulty attracting new ones, with many students expressing less interest in entering the profession. Addressing this requires a shift in focus to support and retain current teachers by providing the resources, conditions, and support necessary for success. When we prioritize students without equally supporting educators, we risk further weakening the profession. At the same time, we must continue to elevate and demonstrate the value of teaching to future generations who are watching and shaping the future of this profession.
What values are most important to you in your work and personal life?
The values most important to me in both my work and personal life are compassion, authenticity, and a strong commitment to service. My experiences working with individuals with disabilities and supporting educators have reinforced the importance of empathy and understanding, particularly as mental health challenges have become more prominent. I also value staying grounded in my purpose, helping others and giving back, while advocating for stronger support systems for educators so they can thrive both personally and professionally.
Locations
University of North Dakota
Grand Forks, ND, 58202