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American Indian College Fund President Rick Williams Honored with Doctor of Humane Letters Degree from Roger Williams University

Denver (May 22, 2007) -- Richard “Rick” B. Williams, a member of the Oglala Lakota Tribe and President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Indian College Fund since 1997, was awarded a Doctor of Humane Letters, honoris causa, from Roger Williams University in Bristol, R.I., on May 19.

Williams was chosen for the honor for his dedication to American Indian education. As the leader of the American Indian College Fund, Williams helps award more than 6,000 scholarships to American Indian students to attend a tribal college or university each year. In 2005, the National Indian Education Association named Williams Educator of the Year for his work. He is an experienced educator, advocate, historian, and lecturer, and is committed to increasing awareness of contemporary and historical American Indian issues.

Williams has dedicated his life to serving the American Indian community through his active involvement and leadership in programs and organizations targeting American Indian youth and education. He is also involved with several foundations and organizations. He holds a bachelor's of arts degree from the University of Nebraska, Lincoln, and a master's of arts degree from the University of Wyoming .

Williams said despite experiencing racism in school as a young boy, his enthusiasm for education never dimmed. He found his path come full circle as he leads, mentors, and helps American Indian students to achieve their life's goals.

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