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TESTIMONIALS

Through the Lens of Others

Tracy has engaged with a wide range of global and community leaders to create impact.  The sentiments shared capture the essence of her balanced leadership style and consistent effectiveness.

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Jennifer Buffett

NoVo Foundation

Tracy possesses not only the professional qualifications needed to be a social change leader-values of equity, social justice, self-knowledge, personal empowerment, collaboration, and service-but also the personal commitment to making positive social change in areas such as health, education, the status of women and girls, and 
marginalized communities in general. 

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Dr. Faisal Abdu'Allah

University of Wisconsin-Madison

The application of impact, scholarship, best practice, and collaboration, is poetically transcribed throughout the work of Tracy L. Williams, her ability to connect academia, production with the real world, kaleidoscope conditions of culture and the terrain outside the academy - is a real gift.

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Dr. Sherri Charleston

Harvard University

Of all the colleagues I have honored to work with, Tracy Williams is among the most committed, diligent, talented, and effective.

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Tina Nixon
My Sista's Keepher

My Sista’s KeepHer had the privilege of collaborating with Tracy on several initiatives that aligned with our own mission of empowering women and youth. Her willingness to partner with grassroots organizations amplified our programs, ensuring these events reached a broader audience and enriched the lives of countless participants. Her leadership has inspired us to dream bigger and build stronger connections within the community.  Tracy’s legacy is one of innovation, collaboration, and profound impact. Her ability to create new opportunities, strengthen relationships, and inspire others is unmatched

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Gabriel Stulman
Happy Cooking Hospitality

I have had the opportunity to meet some revered and influential people around the world and Tracy stands out among them. The combination of her creative ideas, ability to bridge worlds through her leadership, detailed organization and networking have improved every organization that she has ever been a part of. I have had the honor of building and sustaining award winning restaurants in Manhattan, traveling the world, and in a circle of successful entrepreneurs of diverse mediums, my time is limited, and I am very selective in who I allow in my circle. Tracy is part of that circle.

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Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings

Global Policy Solutions

Ms. Williams is an exceptional leader whose dedication to building resources and opportunities for vulnerable communities—especially women and people of color—has been impactful and inspiring.  I have had the privilege of witnessing Ms. Williams' tireless work ethic and unwavering commitment to social justice firsthand. Her leadership style is characterized by integrity, thoughtfulness, and a genuine passion for creating opportunities for those who are often overlooked.  

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Shawn Dove
New Profit

Tracy is a brilliant organizer, thought-leader and strategist in the social impact space. She exudes a leadership ethos of empathy, courage and resiliency. She is humble as a lamb, yet bold as a lion in her leadership approach.

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Brenda Knapp
Chief
Knapp Development Group

I have had the privilege of getting to know Tracy as part of an invitation only cohort of senior women executives.  Tracy brings her whole self to this group and to all the work that she does. The purpose of this organization is to empower the members and provide leadership development in a cohort model.   All the members were smart and accomplished but Tracy was different.  For me what differentiates Tracy is how she leads…with empathy, experience, and savvy.  She quickly became a trusted colleague and thought leader amongst the group, bringing her extensive social and community impact experience and visionary outlook to the conversation. 

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Anthony Scott
Northern Illinois University Foundation

Authenticity propels alumna Tracy Williams, '95, To success.

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Thomas McKay

Hampton Historical Society

Tracy Williams has been a delight to know, and collaborating with her has been an honor.  She will be an exceptional asset to any endeavor in which her knowledge, experience, intelligence, and passion can be employed.

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A. Shelly Conley
Milwaukee Poet Laureate

Through her integrity-driven leadership, she inspired us to strengthen our foundation, build better systems, foster deeper connections, and aim even higher in our work.  I am confident that Tracy will continue to bring her vision, passion, and transformative leadership to any future endeavor. 

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Jennifer Winding
Tapestry Talent

I have placed many candidates in nonprofit leadership roles over the years, and Tracy is someone who always stood out, for her integrity, her hard work ethic, her charismatic abilities to connect with people, and the smart ways she could sell an idea to a room full of people.

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Jose Matamoros
U and I Luxury Rides

Tracy is an outstanding leader who exemplifies remarkable qualities both professionally and personally. She is an exceptional mother, a loyal friend, and a dedicated community member who consistently strives to make a positive difference in the lives of those around her. Her humility, generosity, and unique perspective set her apart as an extraordinary individual. 
Throughout my life and professional experience, I have encountered few people with Tracy's level of integrity and commitment. She has been a mentor to many, inspiring those around her through her actions and character. Her leadership is rooted in genuine care and a desire to uplift others. 

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Deepthi Welaratna

Thicket Labs

Tracy is a warm and dedicated leader who poured her considerable energy into building the space, capacity, and resources for the organization to meet its mission in the community. Her skills in building and cultivating relationships, level-headedness, and ability to create a platform for large-scale strategy and programming stood out as exceptional qualities. 
I would gladly work with Tracy again.

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Mattie Carter
Steer Liberty Consultant

Tracy's influence extends beyond organizational boundaries; she has been a beacon of hope and inspiration for many women aspiring to enter fields that others have historically dominated. Her focus on inclusivity and diversity in leadership roles is genuinely commendable. As the head of Ellephant Parade, Tracy continues to champion women's leadership by providing valuable resources and training. She empowers women with the necessary skills, innovative strategies, and strong mindsets for navigating their roles' complexities and effectively meeting the critical needs of their organizations, employees, and clients. Tracy's unwavering advocacy for women in leadership transforms lives and shapes a brighter future for the next generation of leaders. 

©2025 Tracy L. Williams

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