The Harrah College of Hospitality welcomes Kim H. Williams as its new associate dean of academics, faculty, and operations. In this role, Williams will leverage her extensive background in hospitality academia to help recruit students and champion their success.

Williams joins the college from the University of North Texas (UNT), where she served as a professor and chair of the Department of Hospitality and Tourism Management. Before her time at UNT, she spent 17 years working in various academic and administrative roles at her alma mater, the University of New Orleans. Williams’ research covers a wide range of topics, including hotel operations, human trafficking, human resources, business continuity, and hospitality healthcare.

In her new role, Williams will be responsible for curriculum oversight, program development, and accreditation support. She will oversee faculty hiring, evaluation, and assessment as well as tenure and promotion. Additionally, Williams will lead college governance efforts and the operational functions of finance, human resources, technology, and facilities.