Dr. Deshawnda Williams (Dr. Dee)
Deshawnda Williams believes it is time to trust and heal again. For over 25 years, she has served more than 10,000 residents in the city of Philadelphia. A socially aware leader and resident of Philadelphia, Williams brings strategic and innovative planning experience that will provide solutions and widespread change. Williams’ brand of leadership is tailor-made for City Council.
Holding a Master’s in Clinical Social Work from Tulane University, Deshawnda put theory into practice when she served as a social worker working with families, children, women, and men impacted by grief, gun violence, domestic violence, homelessness, incarceration, foster care, and unemployment.
Williams’ experience in the behavioral health field as a clinical supervisor, behavioral specialist, and therapeutic consultant
to children and families impacted by mental health challenges has enabled her to deliver effective solutions and interventions that improve their quality of life.
Williams’ Master’s in Education, specializing in special education from Arcadia University, groomed her to be an educator who understood the importance of education reform. As an advocate and fighter for equity for students in the Philadelphia School District, Williams tirelessly empowered students who struggled to read and write to achieve their educational goals.
With a Doctorate in Ministry from Palmer Theological Seminary, Williams uses her missional views to help others not only embrace their spiritual awareness but also commit to their social and emotional healing. She understands the importance of having a social and emotional mission for healing Philadelphians. Deshawnda believes legislative advocacy can effectively improve mental healthcare, economic development, education awareness concerning public safety, education, fair economic development, and quality of life while increasing opportunities in the city.
Williams’ background gives her the on-the-ground experience, credibility, political will, and courage to do the job.