Ethan Williams

Prior to his current role, Ethan worked at Texas Wesleyan University and the University of New England, where he directed orientation, transition, and student life programs for a variety of student populations. His work has included supervising student staff, advising graduate and professional student organizations, implementing assessment systems tied to learning outcomes, and developing initiatives to address student wellbeing, including food insecurity and community engagement.

Ethan is currently pursuing a Doctor of Education (EdD) in Higher Education at the University of North Texas, where his research focuses on the lived experiences of graduate and professional students and the role of orientation in student persistence and success. He holds a Master of Business Administration from West Texas A&M University and a Bachelor of Science in Recreation Management, with a minor in Entrepreneurship, from Oklahoma State University. His scholarly work includes a manuscript under review for the NASPA KC Publication examining orientation as a mechanism for supporting graduate and professional student transitions, as well as a conference presentation through the National Orientation Directors Association (NODA). Additionally, Ethan is actively engaged in professional associations. He currently serves as Co-Chair of the NASPA Administrators in Graduate and Professional Student Services Knowledge Community and was previously the KC Communications Lead. He has also served on NODA’s CAS Advisory Committee and as a conference session reviewer. Through these roles, he contributes to advancing best practices, assessment, and advocacy within student affairs.