Embedded Files
Women’s History Month, celebrated annually in March, is a time dedicated to honoring the women who shaped our communities and cultures. In Nyack, Women’s History Month holds special meaning.
March 3, 2022 marked the two-year anniversary of the death of Ms. Williams, a remarkable woman who left a positive footprint on the Nyack High School community. She was passionate about helping Black students feel proud of their identities. “Being Black in America… means you feel responsible for not only yourself, but how your race is perceived through your words and actions,” she told Nyack Spectrum in 2019. “It means you have to hold out your hand and encourage, inspire and assist those who are coming after you.”
During her time at Nyack, Ms. Williams did just that. “She was the most supportive teacher I ever had,” said Marissa Stellato (‘20). “She really took the time to know her students, and know them well. She always reminded me that I was good enough.”
For Osman Dubon (‘19), Ms. Williams was a cheerleader and guiding hand. “I was one of her [Ms. Williams’] students for English 11… Because I was an ENL student, she would take time to help me pass the Regents because I had difficulties with English since it is not my first language,” they said. “The day she found out I passed, she told everybody in the school, including the principal, that I passed the English regents and that I’d only been in America for 4 years. Everytime she would see me, she would remind me that I did it and she was so proud of me. She made me feel special just by reminding me how smart I was every day. She was not just a good teacher, she was a good person with a beautiful soul.”
The best way to honor Ms. Williams’ memory is by practicing what she preached: Treat everyone with dignity, kindness, and respect. If you have the means, please donate to Sister’s Network, an organization dedicated to financially supporting Black women with breast cancer.
May her memory be a blessing.
Note: Some statements by students have been edited for brevity and clarity.
Page updated
Google Sites
Report abuse