Meet the new
Roan Assistant Director
Matt Williams

Matt Williams is a passionate educator and leader dedicated to guiding and mentoring students to make positive changes in their surroundings. Recently appointed as the Assistant Director of the Roan Scholars Leadership Program at East Tennessee State University, Matt is deeply involved in various aspects of Roan Scholar development. This includes planning, coordinating, and overseeing programming and enrichment activities, as well as coaching and mentoring Roan Scholars.

Matt's academic journey began at Indiana University, where he obtained a B.S. in Biology and a B.A. in Spanish. He furthered his education by earning an M.Ed. in Secondary Science. Over the course of nine years, Matt taught AP Biology and Chemistry to high school students in Indiana, Virginia, and Tennessee. He is a lifelong learner and is set to complete his Doctorate in Leadership and Learning in Organizations from Vanderbilt University in July 2023.

Throughout his teaching career, Matt has crafted and refined a teaching philosophy that serves as the foundation of his approach to students. He believes that great teachers inspire students by sharing their passion for the world, cultivating deep understanding through meaningful connections, and empowering them. By treating their classrooms as data-driven laboratories, these exceptional educators provide abundant opportunities for practice and skill assessment. Above all, they serve as compassionate mentors who create safe spaces for students to be challenged, valued without the pressure of perfection, and encouraged to grow intellectually and emotionally.

Matt resides in Johnson City with his wife, Allison, and their daughter, Ellie.