Biography

Gerald attended the University of Rhode Island via the Talent Development Program, graduating in 1992 with a bachelor’s degree in communication studies, followed by a master’s degree in adult education in 2000. During his time at URI, Williams was a member of the 1984 and 1985 football teams, the two winningest football teams in school history, which advanced to the NCAA Division I-AA Playoffs both seasons. These athletic accolades earned him a spot in the URI Athletic Hall of Fame as a member of the ‘84 and ‘85 championship teams.

In 2000, Gerald was named the 3rd director, and first American Indian director, of
the enormously successful Talent Development Program at his college alma mater. The “TD” program, with the official name of Special Programs for Talent Development which began in 1968. As the TD program’s longest serving director, Gerald developed its first ever brochure, student handbook, virtual computer lab and program newsletter. Established partnerships with Price Waterhouse Cooper and Ernst & Young. Secured the Talent Development Grant as a tuition and need based scholarship. It is to Gerald’s credit that the number of TD acceptances has doubled from 300 to 600 students. Additionally, Gerald oversaw the 1.5-million-dollar renovation of Taft Hall where TD resides, and on October 6, 2018 TD celebrated 50 years of existence on the URI Campus at the Omni Hotel in Providence. In 2021 and 2022 TD will be implementing a new Summer Success Program Model and TD Scholars will be occupying it’s very own Achievement House on Upper College Rd. Gerald is married (33years) to his wife Lisa, they have two daughters Gelisa and Krystle and two granddaughters Maniyah and Divina.