Bloomberg Center for Cities

A Conversation with Durham Mayor Leonardo Williams

Co-sponsored with the Taubman Center for State and Local Government

Register

Portrait of Mayor Leonardo Williams - Durham NC


5:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m.
Taubman Building 5th Floor - T-520 Allison Dining Room

About the Event

Durham, North Carolina Mayor Leonardo (Leo) Williams will share insights drawing from his experiences as a former educator, school administrator, entrepreneur, and city council member. He will be joined by his AY23-24 Transition Term team to share more about the Taubman Center’s program and their experiences with him on the ground.

Mayor Williams is currently participating in the Bloomberg Harvard City Leadership Initiative, the yearlong program for mayors and senior city officials from the Bloomberg Center for Cities.

Registration is requested and refreshments will be offered.

Co-sponsored with:

 

Speakers

Leonardo (Leo) Williams of Durham

Leonardo (Leo) Williams

Mayor of Durham, North Carolina

Mayor Leonardo (Leo) Williams is a former teacher and school administrator. He was elected to Durham City Council in December 2021 and sworn in as Mayor December 2023. Mayor Williams is a proud graduate of North Carolina Central University, earning a Bachelor’s in Music Education and a Master’s in Educational Leadership. While attending NCCU, Leo met his wife, Zweli, and they are the proud parents of their son, Izaiah Williams.

Mayor Williams was recognized twice by Durham Public Schools as Teacher of the Year and was also recognized by the Triangle Business Journal with a “40 Under 40” Award for producing innovative practices in education. He transitioned from full-time educator to full-time small business owner when he and his wife opened Zweli’s, the first full-service authentic Zimbabwean restaurant in the United States.

While serving on City Council, Mayor Williams continues to apply his experience and passion in education, entrepreneurship, and commitment to addressing deep social issues to make Durham a united community that provides safety and prosperity for all.

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