Get to know Anthony Williams
Anthony Williams was four-years-old when his father was murdered 51 years ago. Quite an impactful moment in the life of a young boy. Through the compassion and guidance of a caring community, Williams found inspiration in those helping his family move forward.
“There were so many people who provided mentorship for my mother and family, people who loved and supported us, spiritually, mentally, financially in all facets of our lives,” Williams said. “They invested themselves in us.”
These acts of kindness would mold the future of someone who has dedicated himself to the Abilene community over the last 50 plus years as a volunteer, business owner and public official.
Williams has spent years volunteering in the Abilene community, giving selflessly of his time and resources to countless nonprofit and municipal boards. The pinnacle, however, of his community engagement came in 2017, when he was elected Mayor of Abilene, a role he continues today. One might think the election of a community’s first black mayor would take center stage, but Williams reflects otherwise.
“My election had significant historical implications for the City, but during my very first race for mayor, during the election, my ethnicity was never a major point of discussion,” said Williams, who is not seeking re-election this year following two terms in office. “That’s pretty significant and says a lot about the Abilene community. We were able to focus on the important issues, including water, roads, and job creation through business growth. I’m very proud of my tenure.”In addition to his public service, Williams has held different roles at Abilene Christian University, where he’s been employed over the last 28 years, including his current position as Executive Director of Intercultural Engagement & Belonging, a role he notes as “probably one of the more challenging roles I’ve had in my tenure at ACU, but I would say the most rewarding.”
He also is a small business owner, which extended his longtime relationship with First Financial Bank, when he opened his business in 2015. “I am just so thankful for the opportunities the Bank’s support has provided me as a business owner,” Williams said. “We’ve enjoyed some success and our partnership created the opportunity for the business to thrive. Evan Harris has just been outstanding, not only providing assistance, but expertise.
“The banking industry is very important,” Williams added. “It provides that gateway to what we call the American Dream and I’m so appreciative of First Financial and their contributions in our community, because I’ve seen in my homelife and others how their partnership provides an opportunity for one’s aspirational goals to be realized.”
Williams’ most recent endeavor is the Heritage Project, part of the Abilene Neighborhood Empowerment Zone, in one of Abilene’s lower-income areas. The project involves the revitalization of a former school building that will be remodeled into 29 units of senior housing. “This project is a game changer. This is the largest investment in this area and will be a shot in the arm for this lower-income community. That is why I asked First Financial to become involved, and they did with a $5.5 million investment.”
Every aspect of Williams’ life, from tragedy to triumph, mentorship to public office, and receiving to giving back, community is centric. The City of Abilene, its citizens and all those he’s directly impacted will be the beneficiaries of his selfless work for generations to come.