When Dr. RoDina L. Williams reflects on her experience at Illinois State University, she describes it with gratitude, determination, and the spirit of perseverance. As the first Black person in Illinois to earn a Doctorate in Clinical Laboratory Science (DCLS), she is not only creating a legacy through her cutting-edge research but also making it possible for future generations of scientists to see themselves represented in the fields of laboratory medicine and higher education. “Illinois State truly shaped who I am as a person,” Williams said. “It’s where I discovered my passion and love for research, appreciated the importance of mentorship, and gained the self-assurance to aim higher than I previously thought I could.”
A foundation built on curiosity and guidance
When Williams went to Illinois State University to complete her undergraduate degree, she established a connection with the university. “I came to ISU as a transfer student,” she said. “I chose ISU because of its outstanding kinesiology program and unmatched support from faculty and staff.”
Later, after being drawn to Illinois State’s robust academic offerings and encouraging atmosphere once again, she returned to pursue a second bachelor’s degree in medical laboratory science in the Department of Health Sciences. “I found the same sense of community and purpose when I returned. she remarked. “That constancy said a lot about the type of place ISU is.”
“I found the same sense of community and purpose when I returned. That constancy said a lot about the type of place ISU is.”
Dr. RoDina Williams
Mentors who nurtured a passion
Williams received support from various professors along the way, who enabled her to see her potential and overcome obstacles. Under the guidance of Dr. Pete Smith in the School of Kinesiology and Recreation (KNR), Williams was first exposed to research. Additionally, she mentioned that Dr. Dale Brown from KNR taught her to use real-life experiences to make concepts easier to learn and more memorable. “I often joke with him that I ‘borrowed’ his teaching style, as it worked for me and my students,” Williams stated.
When she enrolled in the medical laboratory science program, that foundation became even stronger. Dr. Lori Woeste from the Department of Health Sciences provided her with thoughtful guidance that helped her to understand how different specialties within medical laboratory science are interconnected.
Williams also shows her gratitude to Dr. Beverly Barham, who has been a mentor since she was a student in the medical laboratory science program and who has always encouraged her to pursue further opportunities in the field.
Making history as the first Black doctorate holder in clinical laboratory science
For Williams, the DCLS degree was both a historic accomplishment and a personal milestone. “It means a lot to me to be the first Black person in Illinois to receive a doctorate in clinical laboratory science,” Williams stated. For her, representation and responsibility are more important than the title alone.
“There are still very few Black professionals, and that lack of representation can make it hard for students of color to see themselves in the field. So, for me, earning this degree was about opening doors and showing what is possible.”
Dr. RoDina Williams
Mentorship and representation in STEM
For Williams, mentoring is essential to success. “My success is not only a reflection of my hard work but also a testament to the power of representation in a field where professionals of color remain significantly underrepresented,” she said. “I see this as my opportunity to give back, to support, mentor, and advocate for younger students who want to work in STEM and healthcare.”
She is dedicated outside of the lab and classroom. Williams maintains ties to Illinois State and supports current students by serving as an active member of the Black Colleagues Association (BCA). “ISU gave me so much, so it’s special to me to be a part of the BCA,” she said.
Balancing purpose and presence
In addition to her career accomplishments, Williams aspires to balance all aspects of her life as a mother, advocate, and scholar. “I’ve learned that balance doesn’t always mean everything is perfectly even; it means being present where I am,” she said. “Every day, my son, Kien John, serves as a reminder of that. I work hard because of him, but I also take time to enjoy life.”
She is grounded by her family and close friends. They serve as a reminder that she doesn’t have to be “Dr. Williams” all the time. She remarked, “There are times when I just need to be RoDina, who is a mother, a friend, and the woman who laughs and takes breaks so she can keep going.”
A legacy of leadership
Today, Williams continues to lead with a vision and purpose as the director of health sciences-medical laboratory programs at City Colleges of Chicago, where she provides her visionary leadership as an educator and administrator overseeing the academic, clinical, and administrative operations. Lastly, when asked to sum up her journey in three words, Williams responded, “Challenging, rewarding, honored.” She stated that Illinois State University is the foundation of her accomplishments, and she is honored to serve as a forever Redbird, showing what’s possible for her generation and beyond.
To learn more about health sciences at Illinois State, visit the Department of Health Sciences website.