MCCer of the Month: Ellie Winter Williams

Ellie Winter Williams spends much of her time helping Meridian Community College students feel at home on campus. During Fall Fest, that even meant taking a turn in the dunk booth while supporting the Green Day theme.
 
Williams, interim director of Housing and Student Activities, has been named MCCer of the Month for September. The MCCer of the Month Award, sponsored by the MCC Foundation, honors employees who go above and beyond their regular duties. Honorees are nominated by their peers and receive a plaque and $250.
 
A colleague who nominated Williams praised her ability to step into a new role, learn quickly, and continue putting students first.
 
“Ellie has picked up fast in a new role, gone above and beyond to learn this role, trained me to be able to pick up where she left off in this role, and has nothing but the most positive energy while doing so,” the colleague wrote.
 
Williams has worked at MCC for two and a half years; she began as an administrative assistant in the Welcome Center before moving into Housing and Student Activities.
 
She said one of the best parts of her job is creating a home away from home for students.
 
“I love being able to provide a home away from home for our students and getting to watch them grow and learn through all of the different experiences that come with living on their own,” Williams said.
She also enjoys planning events that give students something to look forward to and help shape their college experience.
 
One of her most memorable moments at MCC was completing her first move-in day as director.
“Seeing all of the students excited to start this new chapter and watching everything my team and I had worked so hard on come together was so rewarding,” she said.
 
A native of Fair Hill, Maryland, Williams earned an associate degree in business management from East Central Community College. She is pursuing a bachelor’s degree in business marketing through Western Governors University.
 
Williams said the family atmosphere at MCC is one of the things she values most about the college. She also credits her faith and the students she serves with keeping her motivated.
 
“One of my favorite things is when a student comes up to me and says, ‘Thank you for doing this for us,’” she said. “Those little moments mean so much to me and remind me why I love what I do.”
 
Whitney Stevens, associate dean of enrollment services, said Williams is not only dedicated to her job, but also to the student experience. “She puts in many late nights and early mornings to ensure our students are safe, supported, and having an enjoyable time while here with us,” she said.
 
Stevens added, “Her smile and spirit are always welcoming and that makes students and colleagues alike feel at ease when interacting with her.”
 
Williams said her husband, Wesley, is also a major source of support, especially during the early mornings and late nights that come with student events and housing responsibilities.
 
Her favorite quote reflects the approach she brings to her work: “People may forget what you said, but they will remember how you made them feel.”
 
For more information, visit meridiancc.edu/mccerofthemonth.