May 5, 2025 (Louisville, KY) – Dr. Jackson Williams, Pediatric Global Health  Division Chief in the University of Louisville School of Medicine,  was recently recognized as part of the Annual Presidential Excellence Awards. He received the distinguished Faculty Award for National/International Service. Dr. Williams was nominated alongside candidates from every department across the University.

“We are incredibly proud of Dr. Williams,” said Department of Pediatrics Chair Dr. Kim Boland. “His work growing our global health program, including becoming part of the Academic Model Providing Access to Healthcare (AMPATH) Global Consortium exemplifies our commitment to inclusive excellence in clinical care, medical education, pediatric research and community advocacy. Dr. Williams impact on the entire medical community is immeasurable, with a truly global impact.”

From the nomination: "Dr. Williams’s visionary leadership in global health, his unwavering commitment to advancing pediatric care internationally, and his transformative contributions to medical education make him a truly exceptional candidate for this distinguished honor.

He has revitalized the pediatric global health  program and forged impactful international partnerships. His dedication has reinvigorated the resident global health track, reestablished our university’s collaboration with the Tamale Teaching Hospital in Ghana, and expanded opportunities for faculty and learners alike.

Under his leadership, the global health track has grown to become one of the most sought‐after programs, with double‐digit participation from residents and fellows. His inclusive and collaborative leadership has transformed the division into a thriving academic community, engaging more than ten faculty members in delivering education and care to immigrant, refugee, and underserved populations both locally and abroad.

Dr. Williams’s leadership and service have not only elevated our university’s global health mission but have also had a profound and lasting impact on communities worldwide. His ability to bridge medical education, clinical care, and academic research has strengthened healthcare in underserved regions, empowered international faculty, and enriched the training of our own students and residents. His work embodies the very essence of this prestigious award—extraordinary service that transcends borders and transforms lives ’here and beyond.’"

Dr. Williams joined the School of Medicine faculty in early 2019 as an Associate Professor in the Department of Pediatrics, Division of Global Health and holds the Humana Endowed Chair in International Pediatrics. He assumed leadership of the division in 2023.

About the University of Louisville Department of Pediatrics: The University of Louisville (UofL) Department of Pediatrics, part of UofL’s School of Medicine, aims to provide inclusive excellence in clinical care, medical education, pediatric research and community advocacy to meet the health-related needs of children. The faculty are researchers who explore innovation in pediatric medicine, serve on local, regional and national committees and organizations while helping set standards of care and formulate new models of treatment. They are educators, focused on training the next generation of pediatricians and pediatric specialists. In addition, our faculty serves as pediatricians who provide services of Kentucky and the region through our affiliation with Norton Children's Hospital. For more information, visit the department website.