Sam Williams

Sam Williams is a Professor of Practice at Georgia State University's Andrew Young School of Policy Studies, serving as Assistant Director for External Affairs at the Urban Studies Institute. He plays a pivotal role in fostering collaborations between academia, local governments, and businesses, enhancing student opportunities through guest lecturing and strategic partnerships.

• Education: Harvard Business School and Georgia Institute of Technology

His research focuses on leveraging business leadership to address urban challenges, emphasizing economic resilience, inclusive urbanism, and policy innovation. His book The CEO as Urban Statesman (2014) highlights business leaders' roles in solving public policy issues. Williams previously led metro Atlanta's business community as chamber president and downtown Atlanta's Central Atlanta Progress, contributing to urban development initiatives.

He actively engages in scholarly and practitioner events, advancing Georgia State's urban initiatives. His work bridges academia and practice, promoting sustainable and equitable urban futures.