ATLANTA – Mercer University's Sarah Amuka Williams, a second-year student in Penfield College's Master of Science in Organizational Leadership program, recently received one of three graduate scholarships from the National Association of African Americans in Human Resources (NAAAHR) in Atlanta.
The scholarship is intended to support future leaders who are currently pursuing a human resource-related or organizational development degree.
“The faculty and I are proud of Sarah's recognition and the leadership she is providing within her community and her chosen profession,” said Dr. Priscilla Danheiser, dean of Penfield College.
As a part of the application process, Williams submitted multiple essays, provided examples of her volunteer and leadership experience and supplied a reference letter from a mentor or professor that provided insight into her character, work ethic, values and leadership ability.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Williams was raised in Atlanta. Williams is pursuing her master's degree in organizational leadership with a concentration in organizational development and change management. Her current research focuses on preparing for Generation Z, those born between 1994-2010, to enter the American workforce.
“My career goal is to serve as a results-driven, transformational human resources leader who helps organizations utilize technology to meet their strategic objectives, while empowering others to live out their life's purposes,” said Williams.
Williams has served in a variety of human resources, marketing and other positions with Project Management Institute, Delta Airlines, Small Business Development Consulting Services, WorkOasis, the Atlanta Braves, Ogilvy and Mather, and Macy's Systems and Technology.
She has also served in a number of community leadership roles, including as head preschool teacher at Victory World Church, a featured speaker and facilitator with the Atlanta Mayor's Youth Program and co-chair of the College Prep Club in the Rho Zeta Omega chapter of her sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha.
She holds memberships in the Project Management Institute, Association for Talent and Development, National Black MBA, NAAAHR Atlanta, Society for Human Resource Management Atlanta Youth Professionals, Human Resources IT Professional Organization and Oracle HCM User Group.
Penfield College's Master of Science in Organizational Leadership is designed for aspiring or existing leaders from diverse professions and backgrounds who are interested in advanced leadership positions in the public or private sectors. For more information, visit penfield.mercer.edu/programs/graduate-professional/organizational-leadership.
About Penfield College of Mercer University
Penfield College of Mercer University, established as the College of Continuing and Professional Studies in 2003, is committed to serving non-traditional learners and currently enrolls more than 1,300 students. Undergraduate, graduate and certificate programs are offered to working adult learners seeking professional advancement into leadership roles in and beyond their communities. Educational programs provide students with distinctive, multidisciplinary programs that integrate theory and practice. The College offers general education and elective courses for various colleges and schools at Mercer. Another initiative called the Bridge program transitions students enrolled in Mercer's English Language Institute and other international students to undergraduate programs throughout the University. Areas of study include organizational leadership, counseling, human services, human resources, informatics, criminal justice leadership, nursing preparation, liberal studies, psychology, communication, homeland security and emergency management, and healthcare leadership. Programs are offered on Mercer's campuses in Atlanta and Macon, as well as multiple regional academic centers in Douglas County, Henry County and Newnan, and online. To learn more, visit penfield.mercer.edu.
