Dr. Avis Williams is the superintendent of Historic Selma City Schools. A native of Salisbury, NC, she has served in leadership positions in the U.S. Army, as an entrepreneur and school administrator. While in the Army, she was stationed at Fort Jackson, SC, Yongson, Korea, and Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville, AL. Before becoming an educator, Dr. Williams owned a fitness center and worked as a certified personal trainer. She received her undergraduate degree from Athens State University, master’s from Alabama A&M and Jacksonville State Universities, education specialist degree and her doctorate from the University of Alabama. She taught English and Physical Education and coached dance team and track. Dr. Williams has been an elementary, middle and high school principal. She was the executive director of curriculum and instruction in North Carolina where she led instruction for over 60 schools. Before moving to Selma, she served as the assistant superintendent for curriculum in Tuscaloosa City Schools. She is the author of a children’s chapter book, Welcome to Chase Shadows. Her joy comes from spending time with her daughter Briahna, running, writing and being a “dog mom” to her standard poodles, Coco and Butterscotch. Dr. Williams enjoys giving back to her community and working with families in need. She has served on numerous non-profit boards and is a graduate of Leadership Alabama Class XXIX and a member of the Rotary Club of Selma. Dr. Williams has created and delivered dozens of professional development and motivational sessions to churches, student groups, educators and leaders nationwide.