Dr. James Herbert Williams stands out as a leading figure at Arizona State University-West in Glendale, Arizona, where he is actively reshaping the landscape of social work and youth development. As the Director for the Center for Child Well-Being within the School of Social Work, he is deeply involved in pioneering initiatives designed to enhance the lives of young people through thoughtful research and meaningful community connections. His additional role as Principal Investigator for the Southwest Interdisciplinary Research Center highlights his strong belief in bringing together different fields of study to effectively address complex societal challenges. Holding the distinguished title of Professor of Youth and Diversity, Dr. Williams draws upon his extensive knowledge to tackle vital issues impacting young people, such as improving academic performance, preventing violence, and supporting mental health, particularly within urban school environments. His work is built on the fundamental principle that empowering youth through quality education and nurturing surroundings can truly bring about transformative change in society. Before his time at Arizona State University, Dr. Williams held various significant academic leadership positions at the University of Denver. During his tenure there, he made substantial contributions to the field of social work, with a particular focus on advancing youth development and promoting diversity. His insightful leadership and forward-thinking vision were crucial in developing programs specifically designed to meet the unique needs and challenges faced by young people from diverse backgrounds. Dr. Williams's research has attracted considerable support from prominent organizations, including the National Institutes of Child Health and Human Development, underscoring the significance and impact of his work. A defining characteristic of his research is its strong emphasis on promoting health and preventing disease, reflecting his deep commitment to fostering healthier communities through interventions grounded in solid evidence. Throughout his prolific career, Dr. Williams has published extensively, offering valuable perspectives and insights into the critical areas of health promotion and disease prevention. His scholarly contributions are widely recognized for their significant influence on both policy and practice, helping to shape how social work professionals approach the vital work of youth development and community health. Beyond his academic and research endeavors, Dr. Williams is genuinely engaged in community outreach. He collaborates closely with local organizations, dedicating his efforts to implementing programs that provide essential support to youth and their families. This commitment to service and advocacy is a clear demonstration of his dedication to ensuring that his research findings are translated into practical, real-world applications that make a tangible difference in the communities he serves. Dr. Williams continues to be a source of inspiration for his students, colleagues, and members of the wider community. His passion for social justice is evident in all he does, coupled with an unwavering dedication to improving the lives of young people. His leadership at Arizona State University-West serves as a powerful testament to his lifelong commitment to advancing the field of social work and actively working towards a more equitable and inclusive society for everyone.
Arizona State University's School of Social Work provides comprehensive education focused on social justice, diversity, and community engagement, preparing students for impactful careers. While primarily located at the Downtown Phoenix campus, the West campus in Glendale, Arizona, serves as a key site, notably offering the Advanced Standing Master of Social Work MSW program. This program, part of the CSWE-accredited school within the Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions, delivers advanced professional training. The school is dedicated to addressing societal needs and fostering an inclusive environment, equipping graduates with the essential skills and values for professional practice and advocacy for diverse communities.
Part of the highly-ranked Arizona State University system, ASU-West offers a more intimate academic setting. Its modern campus buildings create a welcoming, collaborative environment in Phoenix, reflecting its solid national and global university standing among peers.