Ms. Williams is noted for her leadership roles, charisma, and her quiet yet inspiring manner. Miss Fannie C. Williams was a native of Biloxi, Mississippi. Miss Williams was an honor student at Straight College in New Orleans, she furthered her education at Michigan State Normal College at Ypsilanti, and the University of Michigan. In the midst of pursuing her educational goals, Ms. Williams also served as a teacher in the New Orleans Public School System, this lead to a position as Principal of Valena C. Jones Elementary School. She is highly regarded for optimizing unfavorable conditions in African American schools. Ms. Williams was able to create an advanced learning atmosphere whilst in decrepit buildings, and lacking up-to-date equipment. Her innovativeness as an administrator and educator allowed her to move Valena C. Jones to a larger building in 1929. The school would house New Orleans’ normal and practice classes for colored teachers. Miss Williams also served as a motivational speaker. She was elected President of The National Association of Teachers in Colored Schools. She was appointed by President Herbert Hoover to the National Child Welfare Committee. Ms. Williams served on Dillard University’s Board of Trustees for 24 years.