Faculty Profile: Ronnie Williams

Ronnie III, Celeste, Ronnie and Aidan Williams

F A C U L T Y “Every Child Has An Advocate”

Ronnie Williams takes joy in his ability to affect students’ lives. In his role as St. John’s Assistant Director of the Middle Division, Ronnie’s impact begins as a mentor to many of the children with whom he interacts, guiding them to overcome hurdles, make good choices, and to be goal-oriented.

“My door is always open,” Ronnie says, describing his availability to empower student growth. Ronnie and wife Celeste’s son Aidan is a St. John’s 6th grader, and their son Ronnie III is a 20-year-old college student-athlete (basketball) at Eastern Florida State College. “I’m invested as a professional and as a parent. I want to contribute to the St. John’s legacy. This is the place I want to work until I retire.”

As the leader of St. John’s Advisory Program – a curriculum-based opportunity for students to discuss areas outside of classroom work – Ronnie is much-beloved, instructing students how to plan and organize, as well as working through challenges. “Every child has an advocate,” he says proudly.

Ronnie cites Head of School, Hugh Jebson, as one of his career mentors. He points to Jebson’s leadership - as well as the support of Eagles Fund donors (like himself!) who supply the funds for teacher resources - in pushing the school to success. “It’s a huge comfort knowing you have support,” he explains. “When an educator knows they have that, they will go the extra mile. Hugh goes above and beyond for his teachers to be successful.”

During the challenging times presented by the pandemic, Ronnie has guided students to embrace a growth mindset and focus on overcoming hurdles. “I ask them, why do you feel you can’t do this?” he says. “I hear them out and give them support.”

When asked what he values most about the St. John’s experience, the answers come easily: “The support. The community. The growth. Relationship building. That differentiates us from a lot of other schools.”